Drum Circle Basics

Once you have read the information below please try

some Rhythms on your own!

Drum Circles come in many forms - from technically precise
performances to crazed freeform jams. The following general
suggestions can enhance any group drumming experience,
regardless of it,s style or goals.

1. Be supportive of others

Remember that each person in the circle is sharing their
personal time and energy with you and the circle - a special kind
of gift. For many people drum circles can be very powerful and
intimate. Always return to them not only the energy of your
drumming but also you respect, patience, guidance and
appreciation.

2. Listen and play WITH others

Find the pulse ( the prominent bass beats, rest, and accents
that you "feel) and follow it. Even if you,re only playing one
repetitive beat that supports each pulse, it actually adds a lot! It
is this pulse (yet not necessarily one particular rhythm) that holds
the circle together. In circles with a strong leader or pulse an
individual can lose themselves briefly and play freeform until they
find their way back to the circle.

3. Follow the Leader.

Watch and listen for the pulse and signals
( i.e. "break beats, countdowns, gestures, or verbal
instructions.) If the pulse changes or you get lost, either stop or
play quietly until you find it again. If there is no clear leader,
follow the most confident sounding drummer you can hear
clearly.

Play soft enough that everyone can be heard (including any
singers, guitarists, etc.) Do not play over others in the circle!
Similarly, play slowly enough that everyone can keep up. And as
tempi and volume change, adjust accordingly.

4. Basic Doumbek Notation

Doum (D) - Right hand, clear Low tone - From center of Drum
Tek (t) & Ka (k) - Right and Left Hand, crisp high tone (sharply
striking the head of the drum)

Although Tek and Ka can be played with either hand, Tek is
usually played with the dominant hand since it is more often
accented. The above key is reversed if you are left-handed

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