Frequently asked questions.

What Can I Expect from a Class?

  • The most important thing is have fun! We honor this music and take it seriously, but this isn’t a Guinean Ballet. Just relax and enjoy the process of learning and playing well with others!

  • We’re not particularly rigid and there are many reasons folks take a drum class. Some just want to play, others perhaps really want to learn new rhythms. We’ll take stock on a regular basis to try and make sure everyone is feeling accomodated.

  • Related to the above there may be a mix of levels and abilities as well. As we get to know each of you, we’ll make sure you’re feeling challenged, but not too much so!

  • Ultimately our hope is to build a joyful, vibrant, inclusive and supportive community of people learning and playing traditional Manding music.

How Do I Prepare for Class?

  • Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. Particularly your upper body.

  • Remove all finger jewelry (rings, etc) and any loose or metallic/heavy wrist jewelry as well. This protects you, your jewelry, and your instruments!

  • Peruse the list below on things you might want to bring to class.

What Should I Bring to Class?

  • We recommend earplugs for indoor playing

  • Something to take notes with is handy (physical notebook or electronic device)

  • Your preferred drum seating if you have it, Folding chairs are provided otherwise

  • Recording device. For most folks, a smart phone or tablet is great.

  • Water

What is Provided in Class

  • There will be at least one full set of dunun. If you need a djembe, please let us know beforehand.

  • Folding chairs for seating

  • Info/Notation sheet(s) for the rhythm we’re learning and playing

  • Restroom facilities

Audio or Video Recording Policy

Audio recording for personal use is encouraged to help you remember all that you’ve learned. We ask you don’t share it to the general public, but sharing amongst classmates is fine. Video recording is not allowed.

What is “All-Levels” Djembe/Dunun mean?

Eventually we’d like to have two separate levels of classes, one for beginner and one for intermediate and beyond. Because we’re just getting going, we’ve decided to start with everyone in one class. We will be able to challenge more advanced folks while still keeping the beginner folks engaged, so fear not. As soon as attendane supports it, we’ll be looking at moving to two separate classes.

What is the difference between Beginner and Intermediate levels?

The djembe does not have formal levels, as in for example, martial arts. We can offer guidelines to make sure you sign up for a classes that are challenging, but not frustrating. Beginners are generally folks who are either completely new to the djembe (never played) or have studied for less than a year. Basic technique will be covered and thereafter rhythms will be taught, perhaps with a simple break or arrangement.

Intermediate/Advanced folks should have reasonably differentiated sounds (tone, slap, bass) and the ability to pick up new rhythms and techniques a bit more quickly. The solos and breaks will be longer and more complex. In general one should have a year or two of consistent study for these workshops.

What if I Cannot Afford the Classes?

We’d like to create an environment where no one is turned away for lack of financial resources. If you really, really want to learn and play and can’t afford it, please contact us and we’ll see if we can accomadate you.