Introduction to the Evocative World of West African Drumming
Description
There are two ways to drum. You can grab a drum and start playing, which has its immediate pleasure and belonging with others, and is the easiest instrument to play. The second way will take you on a journey. Each drum from a different culture will have a specific way to be played and even more important the rhythms of that culture move in a different way than the culture you come from. It is one of the most profound journeys you will take. You metaphorically will be leaving Vermont and be transported to West Africa. The many cultures of this part of the continent ethnically move in their bodies differently than we do and consequently their rhythms move differently than what we have been brought up with. The instrument that I will provide, the djembe, will be your vehicle to learn about ethnic rhythms and even more importantly about yourself. You will be taught the hand technique and learn specific rhythms of West Africa.
This program is offered in collaboration with Dorset Players, Inc.
This six-session workshop will meet from 6:00 to 7:30 pm on Mondays, October 14, 21, 28, November 4, 11, 18 at The Dorset Playhouse.
Guest Instructor:
Gary Meitrott was introduced more than forty years ago to West African drumming by the master drummer from Nigeria, Babtunde Olatunji. From that experience, his life took a dramatic turn. Gary Meitrott is the founder of Drum Journeys of Earth in Rutland, Vermont.
