Monday, July 18, 2011

Redemption Song

One of my favourite songs!

Team Spirit

Drumming on Sunday with Team Spirit and Ala :)

invigorated!

On Sunday I was very chuffed to have my son babysat and finally we went drumming again. Ala and Team Spirit band were there. The new venue took my breath away. It does need a woman's touch but I was very pleased that life handed something beautiful to Ala and Team Spirit. I always say it was the best drumming ever but this time, it really was the best. I get emotional just thinking about it.

The new venue 88 Shortmarket street is actually the Platinum lounge. There are lounges and comfy couches. There is a bar area, toilets, cozy setting and really great atmosphere! I loved every little second and have so much gratitude for it. Team Spirit sang and danced. They are fantastic for wedding functions and I would love to see them on stage! Seriously great musicians with heart! I feel lucky and honoured to be in their presence.



I highly recommend that you join us on Sundays. It prepares you for the week ahead! You'll love it!

I must get a better camera, apologies for the poor photography!

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Sunday Bliss

Every Sunday between 2 and 5 pm, come join us at 88 shortmarket street Cape Town ! All Welcome!

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

a form of meditation

Djembe is a definite method to meditation. Your Chi, your energy, djembe allows you to connect to what is around you. Growing up, I had many issues. I have really become aware of my inner self since drumming. Self acceptance, finding beauty in everyone, this is just a part of it.

There are three main areas of drumming that you need to know and anyone can drum, even if you think you don't have rhythm, trust me, that rhythm is inside of you!
- the Tone, the Base and the Slap are the three main instances of drumming. Base in the middle of the drum with your right hand if you are right handed. Tone and slap on the edge of the drum.

Tone is high pitched. The base is a deep sound. The slap is the most difficult, I haven't got it yet! It is a short sharp and very loud tone. You hit the edge of the drum hard. This is going to take some time and you will not learn this over night but you can try and practice.

The beauty of these three tones is that you can mix them up to make a great rhythm. Many different sounds come from three tones.

For example: Djembe rhythm is 1 base - 4 tone - 1 base - 5 tone repeatedly.

When repeating same stroke/sequence, you eventually start working both parts of your brain and this regular exercise is a great way to meditate. You will not notice it but your brain will be in alpha state. Alpha state as I have said before is when your whole self is completely relaxed. I know I need relaxation.

There are many helpful websites and videos on utube that you can watch in order to learn the basic rhythms. Develop a relationship with your drum. Play it regularly to know where the best tone, base and slap is on your drum. Have it tuned every now and then. Most importantly Enjoy it, smile. It's not serious, it's beautiful!

Enjoy
x
Davida