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How to Play
There are many sounds that can be produced on the djembe, the main three are Bass, Tone and Slap. In some notations referred to as B,T, S, and b, t, s. This is the notation that I use and prefer as it is simple and uncomplicated. There are good excercises in them and also vocal "Gun Go do"sounds by Baba Olatunji here.
click on titles for pictures & audio
Bass (B-b) Gun - Dun :
This is played in the Centre of the drum, with the fingers closed (not too tight) and the hand flat.(To make sure you get an even sound practice as if lifting your hand from something hot !!) Generally you will get different bass from your dominant and less dominant hand, this is perfectly normal, they will probably always have a slight difference, in sound. It is always important not to "flam" the fingers (a flam is when one beat is played just before another) So as you always get a clear sharp sound.
Tone (T-t) Go - Do :
This is played at the edge or the rim of the drum, again with the fingers closed, and the hand flat , unlike the bass the whole hand does not make contact, instead,only the length of the fingers. Again watch out for the difference in sound and also the "flam"
Slap (S-s) Pa-Ta :
This is the more difficult of the three strokes and needs a lot of practice, it is played in the same position as tone, except that the fingers are open, and the hand cupped slightly. In my experience there are a lot of people and a lot of books that will tell you how to play this, in my opinion get the basics right, and don't hurt your hand !
Practice
1. Always take of rings, bracelets and watches before playing, as they could cut the skin
2 Sit in a comfortable position,and relax, rhythms do not flow from a tense body
3.Make sure the djembe is in the correct position (that you can easily reach it)
4 Play the three different strokes with both hands, paying attention to an even sound, and that your hands are not getting too sore.
5. Be patient
6 ENJOY !
there is loads more info on the web, go to google and have a look ! |
ONLINE CLASSES for Beginners ; learn Rhythms online, Cd's also available on request
