Ankle Bells and Instrumental Jewelry

When it comes to drum circles, banging the bongos or shaking a shekere provides hours of entertainment and fun for listeners and participants. The freedom in drum circles encourages complex rhythms, improvisation and the coordination of percussion instruments to create an original sound that can take over the imagination and transport the drummers into more receptive and creative states of mind. Many times, these rhythms move beyond the instruments, taking hold of the participants and propelling them into a tapping of toes, clapping of hands, or an expression of rhythm through rhythm, drumming and even dance.

Drum circle participation is not limited to playing an instrument with the hands alone. Instrumental jewelry, such as ankle bells or foot rattles worn by dancers and other drummers add an extra dimension to the music, from harmonious tones to the expression of rhythm in dance. This jewelry is commonly seen in belly dance, Indian or other folk dance styles, marking rhythm and complex foot work with light jingles from bells and coins. These bells, beads and other implements of luxurious design are not only visually appealing, but allow for a different tone within the music and a different feel for the circle as it evolves from improvised rhythms into a full-body festival of music and song. Plus, the visual impact of these dancers within the circle can increase the fun and entertainment of the drum circle exponentially.

Instrumental jewelry can also be used to draw out the less confident or shy members of the drum circle. First time participants may enjoy the ability to contribute to the drumming with a slight tap of the foot that calls little attention to them. Worn outside the circle, ankle bells and foot rattles can even hint about the place that drumming and drum circles holds in a person’s life.

Drumming and drum circles are a chance for people to express a unique connection to music and rhythm. From the Djembe soloist to the dancers dripping in ghungroos, the rhythms and songs of the circles can encourage hours of fun, creativity, living and dancing in the moment.

TweetLabels: African Percussion, ankle bells, Dance, Drum Circle

posted by Chelsea at 7:01 PM

Drums, Injuries and Health

While drumming is known for its ability to burn calories, relieve stress and anxiety and provide a wealth of health benefits through music therapy, the dedicated drummer can still fall prey to various health issues attributed to the art of drumming. Whether the drummer jams on a Djembe in a circle, shreds the skins of a full drum kit, or straps on a set of drums for a one-person show, drumming is physically demanding and can lead to discomfort and permanent injury if proper precautions are not taken.

Hand drumming on a Djembe, Bongos or Congas may provide a tactile release of stress, anxiety and creativity, but it can also impact the joints and tendons of the upper back, shoulders, elbows, wrists and fingers of the drummer. Repetitive stress injuries are common for hand drummers, along with issues like carpal tunnel or tendonitis. Rim shots can cause cuts and scrapes on the hands, and all hand drummers are susceptible to blisters and cracked skin when playing for long periods of time.

Drummers that sit for long periods of time, either on stage, in the recording studio or within drum circles can be affected by problems related to poor posture. Marathons of music and rhythm can cause the drummer to slouch over time, leading to pain and injury in the neck, shoulders, upper and lower back. Many of the same problems can affect drummers that stand while playing. If the drums are attached to equipment and stands, be sure to adjust the height level appropriately. For drummers strapped to a drum, keeping the shoulders back and head forward can help keep the spine aligned and lessen the stress on the body. Always practice proper drumming posture to improve drumming skill and longevity.

Other drumming injuries can happen due to the equipment itself. Drum kits and drum stands should always be secure and stable to prevent drums falling. Sticks, mallets and brushes need to be examined for any cracks, splits or breaks before use. Many drummers report injuries due to a stick or mallet splintering during play, or losing control of the stick, causing injuries to the face, eyes or head.

Common sense can be a drummer’s best friend before any performance, circle or jam session. Always be sure to stretch and warm up before drumming, secure stands and straps, check the position of the drums and quality of any sticks and mallets before playing. The entertainment value of drumming and its wellness benefits are plenty, but even the greatest drummers need to take time for self-care and awareness before tending to the needs of others.

TweetLabels: Djembe, Drumming, Fitness, Health, Injuries

posted by Chelsea at 9:00 PM

Annie Lennox Honored with Silver Clef Award

With a career that spans over 30 years, countless awards and record sales, Annie Lennox has been an integral part of the musical landscape all over the world. Her vocal style and profound lyrics are only part of the total package, and Lennox has used the power of her voice and place in the music industry as a philanthropist, helping to bring music to those who may benefit from it on more than an entertainment level.

Her belief in the power of music and the therapeutic value of instruments from flutes and pianos to djembe drums and guitars have given several music therapy programs the ability to provide services around the world.
In July, 2011, Annie Lennox will be awarded the 2011 Nordoff-Robbins Silver Clef Award, honoring her work and support of bringing the power of music therapy to vulnerable adults and children who may be affected with disorders such as autism, dementia and other neurological disorders, as well as those affected by mental and emotional trauma physical disabilities or even life-threatening conditions like cancer.The continuous advances in music therapy make Lennox’s contributions to the field important for the health and wellbeing of people across the globe.
Music therapy encompasses different methods, from improving the memory of elders by playing familiar songs to djembe drumming, which has been shown to improve neurological disorders in a variety of patients.

Nordoff-Robbins, the organization honoring Lennox, has been training music therapists since 1974 as well as providing classes and instruction to the public and funding various research projects that establish the benefit of music for various populations and physical, mental and emotional disorders. Nordiff-Robbins provides over 45,000 music therapy sessions in schools, daycares, hospital and long-term care facilities in the UK. Nordiff-Robbins also provides a post-graduate research program in music therapy or music, health and society.

From her public roots as the singer-songwriter for Eurythmics, to a solo career that established her as one of the greatest female singers of the era, Lennox has carved a place in the world of music that goes beyond the typical presence of the pop or rock star. This talent, in combination with the support and presence within the field of music therapy, has given Lennox a place with legends such as The Rolling Stones, Sir Paul McCartney, George Michael, Ozzy & Sharon Osbourne and others, showing that stardom and fame are only as important as those who benefit the most from the music itself.

TweetLabels: artists, autism, Djembe, music therapy, senior citizens

posted by Chelsea at 4:50 PM

How to Repair Bongos Drum Heads

A broken, cracked, ripped or torn drum head can make a drum impossible to play. Over time, or even due to various stresses like traveling, storage or exposure to harsh weather conditions can cause a natural skin drum head to split or break. Bongos, one of the most portable drums available, can be subjected to these different changes throughout the life of the drums, and repairing the natural skin of the drum head is a challenging understanding for even the most experienced bongocero.

In order to keep the tone and sound consistent between the macho and hembra drums that make up the bongos, it is recommended that both drum heads are repaired or replaced at the same time, especially if the skins are older. To begin repairing the drum head, the first step is to remove the old skin. Loosen the lugs that hold the rim in place, noting any resistance when unscrewing the hardware. Once the hardware is removed, lift the drum head gently, keeping the rim intact. Remove the old drum head by soaking it in water until the rim and/or hoop comes away from the skin easily. Repeat with the other drum, preparing to re-skin the bongo drums with new animal hide that has been soaking in water, as well.

After soaking, the new hide should be soft and pliable and can be centered over the top of the drum. Gently press the hoop over the new hide, holding it in place against the drum and keeping the folds evenly spaced around the drum. Pull the excess skin up and around the hoop, covering the hoop. Then secure the skin by replacing the rim of the bongo drum over the skin and hoop. Tighten the hardware that holds the rim to the drum, being sure to tighten it evenly around the drum. Check to be sure the rim is evenly spaced around the skin and level with the top of the drum. Finally, using a utility or other sharp blade, trim away the excess skin, flush with the rim. Let the drum dry for 24 hours before playing.

Repairing a damaged skin on a set of bongo drums can be easily accomplished in a few hours. The results are a long-lasting appreciation of the instrument itself and the work that goes into the construction, as well as a new surface to play and better sound. By keeping the bongos in the best shape possible, including replacing damaged, split or torn skins, the set of bongos will last for years to come.

TweetLabels: Bongo Drums, Bongos, Drum Care, repair

posted by Chelsea at 7:54 AM

Paul Simon: So Beautiful, So What

It has been five years since Paul Simon released his last album, but he has not even begun to think of retirement. At 69, Simon's career is expansive, encompassing 12 albums, including his latest, So What or So Beautiful, which has been described as,

Tuning Conga Drums

No matter how carefully a set of conga drums is handled, or the amount of time spent playing the congas, these Latin percussion instruments will need to be tuned periodically in order to ensure the best sound and playability. The difficult part of tuning the congas is not the actual tuning of the drums, but knowing that there is actually no

Meditative Drumming for Beginners

The mental and psychological changes that can be accomplished though quiet periods of observation or reflective moments of silence are potent testaments to the power of meditation. Meditation is a tool for those seeking stress and anxiety relief, to connect with the subconscious or a higher spiritual power. It brings a calming, peaceful state of mind that enables the processing of external stimulus that can affect the moods and thoughts as well as strengthen the bond between a person and a spiritual path.

Meditation takes many forms, one of which includes the ability to focus on a single action, such as walking, breathing or even drumming. Introducing drumming into meditation brings several benefits into the meditative state, one of which may be the ability to achieve a level of calm while listening to or even playing a rhythm on a djembe, bongos or other hand percussion instrument. The action of drumming; the feel of the drum head as it is struck by the hand, or the physical release felt as a rhythm builds and takes on a life of its own, reflecting the mood of the drummer or those within the drum circle can help distract a person from the tired, overworked thoughts that plague the conscious world. For this reason, many people turn to drumming or music with a strong drum beat in order to help achieve a meditative state.

Meditative drumming rhythms typically start off softly and slowly, easing the drummer or listener into the experience of meditation with drums. This type of drumming can be beneficial within a small group or drum circle, as well as during solitary moments with a favorite djembe or other hand drum. As comfort between the group or the drummer and drum builds, the rhythms can get faster, louder and more complex. Even as the rhythms evolve, there is little distraction, as the drummer reflects internal rhythmic needs or the listener is guided into different areas of meditative focus. After a period of more intense drumming, the rhythms played or heard will naturally decrease in fervor, message, volume or tone, indicating a time for the subconscious and conscious minds to disengage from the drumming and return to a more normal state of being.

To achieve the best benefit from meditative drumming, it is recommended that the rhythm played on the djembe is as close to 180 beats per minute, reflecting the same rhythm that scientists have recorded emanating from the earth. This natural rhythm is thought to increase the therapeutic effect of drumming and can, therefore, enhance the benefits during a meditative drumming session when a person's subconscious mind is more open to receive the health and wellness of drumming therapy.


Drum used in this video is the Remo Kinte Kloth Djembe.

For some, the ability to disengage the mind is difficult, taking practice and dedication. It has even been said that the thought of meditating causes stress and anxiety because of the fear of failure involved. As a relatively unknown ability, the prospect of turning off the spiraling thoughts in the mind can seem impossible, but with the indirect focus on a repetitive activity, a state of meditation can be easier to achieve. Meditative drumming is practiced by cultures across the globe, as well as those with connections to earth religions and more esoteric spiritual paths. For those seeking an easier way to reap the benefits of meditation, picking up a djembe or other hand drum and focusing on the rhythms and actions of playing, the relaxation and stress reduction benefits of meditative drumming can easily be achieved.

TweetLabels: Djembe, Drum Circles, Drumming, meditation, music therapy, percussion

posted by Chelsea at 1:41 PM

Call and Response Drumming

Drumming within a drum circle or leading a therapeutic drumming environment for adults or children requires the ability of the facilitator to keep the drumming interesting as well as easy for the novice drummer, or for those with physical or other limitations. Complex rhythms, while fun and inspirational, can cause the participants to shy away from drumming, feeling overwhelmed in terms of the ability needed to play, or even causing sensory overload for more sensitive participants. A time-honored drumming technique,

Marimbula History and Technique

Most Afro-Cuban music, such as the Changui and Son, have deep roots in the cultures that were crossed in the 19th century. The African slave trade brought to the Americas a rich and diverse population that influenced the Latin cultures through music and instrumentation. Many of these instruments, including the cajon, were constructed from the leftover shipping crates, boxes and scraps of metal or other materials considered trash. The cajon and marimbula are testimonials to the ingenuity of their creators, as well as to the spirit of a culture that continued to thrive while confronting unfamiliar people, places and treatment.

Vacation Destinations for Drummers

There is nothing like a good vacation to reduce stress, discover new places and people and embark on an adventure that can be life-changing. For drummers, percussionists and those interested in the history of drumming, a vacation can be more than a way to recharge and rejuvenate, but also a way to connect on a deeper level to a favored instrument. Drums like djembes, cajons or congas are a part of the history of exotic and stunning lands in which the development of the rhythms or the construction of the drum are told through the evolution of various cultures. Taking the time to visit these places and learn about the beliefs and values of these cultures can enrich a drummer’s skill, and enhance the experience of drumming as a whole.

DESTINATION 1 - MALI
Mali, located in Western Africa, is one of the favorite spots for vacationers seeking a historical picture of African cultures. Tours to this area include the cliff dwellings of the Dogon region, Tuareg camps, The Sahara, Timbuktu and Djenne. Mali is also credited with the invention of the Djembe, one of the most beloved drums in world percussion and drum circles alike.

DESTINATION 2 - Congo
Congo, Africa, is home to the second largest rainforest on Earth, wild chimpanzees, lowland gorillas and other species of wildlife. From its beautiful beaches along the Congo River to its cultural roots, the Republic of Congo is emerging as an important stop for tourists, historians and drummer, alike. The Congo drum, now a favorite in Latin music, evolved in this region.

DESTINATION 3 - PERU
The Incan Empire, while short-lived, has left an impression on the people of Peru, as well as the entire world. Peru is home to the Amazon Jungle, the Atacama Desert, the Andes mountains and the versatile Cajon drum, developed in coastal Peru by African slaves determined to circumvent the ban on indigenous drums and music. The Cajon is the byproduct of a culture that used scrap materials to continue the native music that helped them find solace during slavery, and celebrate after its abolition.



DESTINATION 4 - CUBA
Cuba is credited with the introduction of bongos to play its numerous Latin rhythms. 3,000 miles of coastline and an incredibly rich culture within its land make Cuba a fascinating and unforgettable place to visit. La Habana Vieja, or, Old Havana contains colonial-era mansions and churches. Havana's Malecon tracks across the waterfront, making it the perfect place to experience the social sights and sounds of Cuba, including local bongoceros, or musicians that play the Cuban-born bongo drums.

For the amateur drummer interested in the historical and spiritual roots of drumming, or the professional drummer who wants to experience the cultures that created a favored drum or percussion instrument, a vacation can be more than a chance to let go of the daily stresses of life. Adventuring to the lands in which favored drums first evolved can benefit the playing and vibe of a drummer, whether on a congo, bongos, djembe or cajon drum.

TweetLabels: African Percussion, Afro-Cuban, Bongo Drum, cajon, Conga, Djembe

posted by Chelsea at 7:29 PM

Reasons Why You Should Drum

Finding an activity that appeals to a majority of people, regardless of age, gender, physical ability or location can be a difficult task for even the most experienced professional or amateur entertainment director. Incorporating interesting activities within a business, corporation, medical setting, school or even a family in order to provide entertainment, team-building or promote wellness leaves little room for typical activities, which is why many of these groups are turning to drumming in order to fulfill the unique needs of these groups of individuals.

Drumming has a host of benefits for the mind, body and spirit that keep the imagination alive, entertain and challenge and can even help heal mental, emotional or physical impairments and disorders. Drumming can be done in a group, or as a solo activity, and incorporates rhythm and music within the activity, utilizing the mood-enhancing, and memory-stimulating effects of a favorite tune. While some forms of drumming, like beating a Djembe or bongos, may be better for people with limited physical ability, other forms of drumming are reported to burn at least 300 calories an hour. The physical aspect of drumming is also noted for its ability to release stress and lower blood pressure while stimulating chemicals in the brain to help reduce anxiety. Drumming is also reported to boost the immune system, making it a remarkable way to fight off the common cold.

In group settings, drumming can help others relax and feel more comfortable at work, school, within therapeutic environments, or during social gatherings. As drumming can be a form of non-verbal communication, its ability to provide avenues for others to connect can be one of its greatest benefits. Drumming is also used to link to the subconscious and spiritual nature of a person or belief system, providing a deep level of self-awareness and enlightenment through the musical nature of our own rhythms.



The entertainment value of drumming is priceless. Whether listening to a favorite song with a familiar beat, participating in a Djembe drum circle, rocking out on a drum set or composing bongo symphony with a toddler playgroup, drumming brings along its own fun. Drumming is also an excellent way to express creativity or release creative blocks that can hold back artists and business-oriented people alike.

A simple drum, like a Djembe, can benefit the physical, mental or emotional well-being of people through its ability to reduce stress and anxiety and promote communication and friendships with others. Drumming has been shown to lower blood pressure, raise endorphins and promote a fun and entertaining environment for people of all ages, experience and levels of drumming, physical and other abilities.

TweetLabels: Drum Circles, Drumming, healing, special needs, spirituality

posted by Chelsea at 8:59 PM

Drum Circle at The 2011 Modern Drummer Festival

Steve Campbell from Dancing Drum facilitated the drum circle at this year's Modern Drummer Festival in Upper Montclair, New Jersey. Over 50 people participated in the drumming just prior to the drum clinics hosted by Modern Drummer Magazine.

How to Tune Your Djembe

Due to the delicate nature of the materials used in a Djembe, it is normal for the drum to need periodic maintenance and tuning in order to produce its best sound and keep the drum in top form. If a Djembe begins to sound dull when played, it is probably time to tighten the head. The wood and skin of a Djembe are vulnerable to various weather and handling problems that can occur through regular use, storage or transportation.

Tuning Djembe drums is more than matching a pitch, but can vary depending on the size of the drum, the type of drummer and the desired sound within a chorus of drums. Drums are rarely tuned to a note on a scale, but are tightened in order to produce a crisp sound with little to no decay, or to compliment the other drums being played. The beauty in this is that these drums blend nicely with other African percussion instruments, regardless of the notes produced.

For key-tuned Djembes, the process of tuning is made simpler by the hardware involved. A key-tuned Djembe relies on the tension created between its rim and the lugs and hardware fixed to the base of the drum that keep the skin of the head tight. Tuning these drums requires little more than a drum key or wrench to tighten the lugs. With a key-tuned Djembe, it is best to tighten each lug slightly, moving in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction, in order to maintain a consistent sound around the entire head of the drum. Once the head of the key-tuned Djembe is tight, the sound quality should improve, creating crisp tones across the entire drum head.

Rope-tuned Djembes require more time and skill to tune than key-tuned Djembes. These drums are more authentic in their construction, with the head of the drum affixed to the base by smaller metal rings around the rim, and then attached securely to the base with a series of vertically-woven ropes. With rope-tuned Djembes, the ability to tighten the head of the drum relies on the

Modern Drummer Festival Drum Circle Instruments

Big Savings on Instruments Used at the 2011 Modern Drummer Festival Drum Circle

Steve Campbell from Dancing Drum facilitated the drum circle at this year's Modern Drummer Festival in Upper Montclair, New Jersey. Over 50 people participated in the drumming just prior to the drum clinics hosted by Modern Drummer Magazine.

We have a handful of djembes and djun djuns available for sale that were used at this drum circle. These drums have just an hour of use by respectful musicians and are in like-new condition.

Take advantage of discount pricing on these instruments while supplies last!!

Modern Drummer Festival Drum Circle Instrument Sale

TweetLabels: Dancing Drum, Djembe Sale, Djun Djun, Tycoon Percussion

posted by Kristin at 4:22 PM

Kalimba and Music Therapy

The Kalimba is an African percussion instrument that can be found in classrooms, drum circles and is featured in different genres of music and drumming. It goes by many names, depending on its cultural influence, including the "thumb piano," a term coined from the method of playing. Originally, Kalimbas were constructed from gourds, using metal scraps to form the keys. Today, the Kalimba can be found in shapes and sizes that vary from gourds to squares, circles and more stylized shapes.

Kalimbas have a distinct presence in the world of music therapy today that provides noteworthy health and wellness benefits to those with physical disabilities, brain injuries, hearing impairments, autism and can also benefit the early bonding process between a mother and infant or help ease depression. Music therapists use the Kalimba in various ways, depending on the patient’s needs and comfort level.

Playing the Kalimba for infants can help calm and soothe, helping new mothers feel less overwhelmed while creating a lasting connection between the mother and child. It can also be used prenatally to stimulate a fetus by playing it against the mother’s abdomen, allowing the sound and vibration to reach the baby.

Physical disabilities, including problems with gait, or mobility issues that may arise from arthritis can be addressed with the sound of the Kalimba, or by its very design that creates music with the smallest movements of the thumbs. In addition to the benefits felt by the sound or playing of the Kalimba, the vibrations produced from the Kalimba can relax different muscle groups, and these same vibrations give those with hearing impairments the chance to experience music through the sense of touch.

To relieve stress or ease depression, the act of creating music can be an important therapeutic tool. With the Kalimba, the sound created is light and whimsical, enabling positive mood changes. The instrument is as easy, or complex, as the player wants it to be, giving control over the amount of time and dedication to its music as desired; players can pluck a few keys to create an improvisational melody, or practice well-known songs, depending on time, ability and motivation.



The benefits of Kalimba playing impact a variety of physical, neurological and emotional wellness concerns, and as such, music therapists are integrating this African percussion instrument into the therapeutic environment. With benefits similar to those of drumming and the didgeridoo, the Kalimba promises to increase the quality of life for people for years to come.

TweetLabels: African Percussion, Kalimba, music therapy

posted by Chelsea at 9:41 AM