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About
Drum Classes |
by Zorina Wolf
I believe in the power of drumming as an art, as a means of
communication and healing, and as a way to bring harmony to
a community. From this point of view, I teach about the drumming
and the songs and dances that are a part of the African ethnic
expression and way of life.
| I teach drumming as my teachers (primarily Babatunde Olatunji)
have taught me. The teaching is both oral and aural. Students
sing the Yoruba sounds of the drum, and as we sing the melody
of "notes," playing the drum follows easily. The
rhythms are songs that become internalized, circumventing
the need for prior musical training or counting beats in western
measures. |
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Babatunde
Olatunji
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Understanding where a rhythm comes from both geographically
and in meaning is also important in the way I teach. African
and Africa diaspora drumming conveys important information
about these cultures, their traditions, their everyday lives,
and their rituals. The rhythms are parts of songs and dances
to honor cycles of the year, rites of passage, birth, death,
marriage, circumcision, and all aspects of life, work, and
celebration.
As we work to reclaim our own rhythmic heritage, we can look
to this polyrhythm of developed and sophisticated music with
respect and humility.
I teach all age groups. I have taught in child care centers,
in public and private schools, and for private enterprise.
I currently teach at four class sites per week--three in Palo
Alto, CA, one in the East Bay.
Current Drum Class Schedule
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