X8 Drums Blog

Drumming and communication go hand in hand. From the roots of Djembe drumming as a way for tribes in Africa to communicate across long distances to the celebration within these tribes and communities through the magic of drums, a drum has been used as a way for like-minded people to establish a method to grow together and forge important interpersonal bonds. In today’s corporate-run world, the ability for people to connect on a personal level is often made m …

In this lesson Michael Pluznick will teach you how to play basic djembe parts known as passport parts (basic djembe parts common to several different rhythms) in 6/8 time from Guinea and Mali. You'll also learn the two most popular "breaks" used to start and end the rhythms. Once you have the parts down, play along with the ensemble section and see rare footage of Michael's teacher in Mali play the parts. Once you learn all the parts that are on in this lesson you will be well o …

The CDC recently released new numbers that show one in 88 people is affected by an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the U.S. With autism rates still climbing, many parents, teachers and therapists are searching for ways to help children and adults learn skills that can help minimize some difficulties experienced by those “on the spectrum.” Drumming, in particular, has shown several benefits for autistic children and adults, and the results of integrating drumming in …

The long-lasting personal development goals and benefits of drumming can turn a group into an entity of change, ambition and wellness. With research pointing out the benefits of drumming for those with neurological disorders, and the overall benefit of drumming and music on a child’s comprehension in school, special needs educators and therapists are beginning to incorporate drumming into therapy time. These sessions, either on a one-on-one basis or in a group can be effective e …

This post is part of the Michael Pluznick author residency at X8Drums.com. Enjoy! When I first started drumming in the early-70's the djembe was a relatively unknown instrument. I had learned conga drumming in Boston but started djembe and West African studies in California in 1979 with the late Craig 'Simbo' Anderson. An accomplished drummer in several styles, including West African and Afro-Cuban, he was instrumental in encouraging me to learn and play in both styl …

It can be said that drumming is an exercise in creativity and self-expression. From the various beats of the drum to the entire learning process of mastering an instrument, drumming is music, yet, it is more than music. Drumming brings about an awareness of the physical and mental, as well as connections to others, all of which can be beneficial to the mind, body and emotional state of a person. Through drumming, however, another aspect of personal development can be …

Written by Kenya Masala As we continue to answer the question of proven scientific benefits to youth drumming programs, we explore yet another study. Educators and program directors interested in scheduling a rhythm or drumming based program for schools, may not have time to read though entire studies to – yet, you need to know this unequivocally to spend your program dollars wisely. Because we know that interactive drumming and rhythm programs deliver a spectr …

The Conga, a dance involving a single-file chain of people roving around a room to the beat of a Conga drum and accompanying instruments, is an Afro-Cuban dance brought over by slaves and may be most famous for its appearance in movies, wedding receptions or its performance by Desi Arnaz in the 1950's. The Conga may have been a way for slaves to celebrate victories in their daily lives or surrepticiously express their anger, and has become a staple of parties, festivals a …

Didgeridoo, possibly the oldest instrument known to man, originated in northern Australia through the Indigenous population of the Northern Territory. The instrument has been played for over 1500 years and has recently become a prominent feature in alternative healing communities because of its ability to help with sleep disorders and other health issues. The low frequency sounds and actual vibrations produced by the didgeridoo are thought to encourage the healing of tissue …

The Gahu Drum Ensemble, led by drummer T.R. McKotch, is working on releasing an album, as well as performing, teaching and bringing the world the spirit of Africa and Haiti through traditional rhythms such as Fanga, Kpanlogo and Luba. According Gahu Drum Ensemble, "it is our aim to encourage participation in, and enjoyment of, the rhythms and dances of West Africa, the Caribbean, and the African Diaspora, whether in a workshop or performance." The Gahu Drum Ensemble use …