X8 Drums Blog

X8 Drums loves a good jam session, especially one that bonds and empowers a group of people. San Diego-based non-profit Banding Together takes the power of jam sessions and drum circles further by providing free music therapy for young men and women with developmental disabilities. Once a week during the 12-week program, professional musicians volunteer to host a jam session using various instruments, including hand drums. But the jam sessions are about more than playing music. Banding Toge …

You don’t have to travel to West Africa to immerse yourself into its unique arts and rich culture. Thanks to organizations like Lannaya, you can experience the rhythms and dances of West Africa right here in the U.S. - more particularly, right here in Austin. Founded by African Master Drummer Alseny Sylla and New York-based choreographer Suzannah Kincannon, Lannaya is a non-profit arts organization that preserves African Diaspora Arts and educates the local community on West African arts an …

In 2012, drummer Jason Barnes lost his right hand and forearm in a work accident. The accident seemingly left Barnes unable to play and understandably depressed, but his passion for drumming and music was greater than his loss. In the most inspiring of ways, Barnes found a way to play again using a robotic arm. During the Georgia Tech Center for Music Technology Robotic Musicianship Concert on March 22, Barnes debuted his new robotic arm and gave the first-ever musical performance using the GATe …

As experts in all things hand drums, we have run across a lot of different views and questions from people who may not truly understand the beauty and tradition behind djembe drums, bongos or other hand percussion instruments. In order to facilitate a better understanding of why we are crazy for hand drums, here are the top hand drumming myths we have come across in our own discovery and exploration of these beautiful instruments. Hand Drums are for Hippies?Hand drums are for hippies, and for p …

There are basic drumming rhythms for the djembe. One of those basics is called the yankadi rhythm. Once you have heard it, you will know it, as it is a slow rhythm, encouraging one to get up and celebrate the ancestors or simply march in a procession down to the ocean and pay tribute to an Orisha. The sound is at once distinct and provocative. While there are books available to help a drummer interested in learning this rhythm, they are not the most reliable source. It is probably best to learn …

Maybe you have been playing your djembe for months, or even years, understanding the powerful experience this instrument provides. Maybe you finally decided that you want to start drumming with others who share your love for rhythm. Perhaps, even, you have sat and listened to a drum circle, understanding the beauty that comes from a community of people making music and rhythm together. Whatever your reasons may be, you want to participate in a drum circle but may feel a little awkward or intimid …

Few things can put a smile on a child’s face, regardless of age or ability, than a room full of musical instruments ready to be played. The creative and expressive benefits of music for children are numerous, as well as the value in academics and self-esteem, making music education one of the most beneficial programs in schools today. The benefits of music for children start as early as preschool, and continue throughout elementary, middle or junior high, and high school. Classes es …

Many consider the drum roll to be one of the most fundamental rudiments that a drummer needs to know. The basic idea behind a drum roll is that, with each stroke, the drummer will allow the drum stick to bounce making an extra beat creating the impression that there is one continuous sound emanating from the drum. But how does one produce a roll on a hand drum without sticks or mallets?In reality, a seasoned drummer will tell you that if you want a controlled roll with a clear, even sound, you d …

School is the foundation for education, both academically and in preparation for the adult world. Much of today’s curriculum is designed to help all children begin their adult lives on an even playing field in terms of math, science, language arts and social studies. Within schools, however, we all know that the learning does not stop with books, essays and trig tests, but that schools are the main venue we learn how to function socially among our peers and eventually in the “real world.” S …

Here are five basic techniques using your fingers:Bass SoundThe first finger sound employs turning the wrist inward, striking the drum with the fleshy part of the hand and the extended thumb. The drum should be struck the off the center position. After the stroke, the thumb should not rest on the drum allowing the head to resonate creating a rich deep bass tone on your drum.High SoundThe next sound is created in a similar manner to the Bass sound. However, with this technique the wrist will rota …