Friendly Chameleon |
|
African Drums
The home of West African drums, dancing and music; welcome to DRUMCULTURE. Operating a Cultural Music School in The Gambia, Drumculture was created several years ago and is now run by a group of dedicated and enthusiastic musicians from the UK, Gambia, Guinea and other West African countries. Its roots stem from a love of traditional African drums and dance, particularly from the Mandingue (or Malinke) culture.
DRUMCULTURE can provide djembe tuition in the UK, some of it at established workshops, (see UK Workshops) or join our friendly family on one of DRUMCULTURE’s dedicated drumming and dancing holidays at our wonderful music and cultural school in The Gambia, West Africa (see drumming and dancing holidays).
|
| |
|
Learn more about us on our information page where we highlight some of the music and dance tutors, their background, inspiration and experience. On our gallery page you can see some memorable images that we have compiled over the years.
We have done our best to detail some of the history of the Malinke culture and its musical traditions on our history page; not an easy task as most of the history is passed on from generation to generation in songs, stories and ritual.
Drumculture African Drumming is aimed at using all different cultures of African traditional music to create different rhythms and beats through drumming and song.
- Traditional African music creates an atmosphere of warmth, a closeness and a completely different relationship between people.
- African drumming is fun, energising and inspirational to people of different ages, backgrounds and abilities.
- Playing the djembe drums improves co-ordination and motor skills. It also requires concentration and focus to learn the different drum beats.
- African drumming encourages creativity and self expression. Drumming workshops help to reassure people of their abilities and talents and promotes self-confidence and a feeling of well-being and relaxation.
Want to combine wonderful climate, beautiful beaches, peaceful environment and incredible music with the finest music tuition? Then come and join us in The Gambia at our Music and Cultural School where we teach djembe, dun-dun, kora, balafon and traditional West-African dance.
Our school is located near the town of Serrekundah, Southern Gambia, with the coast just a short taxi-ride away. The school truly is a small paradise, with exotic birds passing by throughout the day. From the moment you enter, you will be overcome with a feeling of peace and tranquility; the perfect environment for drumming. The school is our home and you will be made to feel part of the family (even learn some African cooking if you like!).
Our principal teacher is Libon Traore, a master drummer with the African Ballet group in Gambia. Born in Guinea Conakry into the Susu tribe, Libon has a great depth of knowledge of West-African music and traditions. His mother, Mbaliya Keita, is a famous singer in Guinea Conakry and it was she who gave him his love of music.
Why Use Our School?
- You will be taught by some of the finest musicians and music teachers in The Gambia
- Learning in the 'African environment' will rapidly improve your skills and knowledge
- The school lives and breathes music; it's part of our daily lives
- You’ll enjoy blissful surroundings in a warm, friendly and peaceful environment
- We love what we do and we want you to share our happiness and contentment
Our aim is to make your stay with us the best holiday you’ve ever had; after all, we want you to come back! |
