Middle Eastern Drumming

LA Workshops by Miranda Rondeau

2011-10-19T07:33:00.000-07:00

REMO Recreational Music Center
Introductory & Intermediate
FRAME DRUM WORKSHOPS
for women and men
Lap style Position
with Miranda Rondeau

:: Two affordable Workshops ::

Join Miranda as she shares her passion for one of the oldest archetypal instruments in the world. Come explore rhythm and the unique sound of the frame drum for the first time or come to get a refresher review.

For those more experienced, Miranda will be sharing some personal techniques as well as other stroke variations. Miranda will pay attention to the melodic aspect of the drum and improve your listening skills

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

**FRAME DRUMS PROVIDED BY REMO**

**** 10% Off on all Frame Drums on Day of Workshop****

INTRODUCTION
Lap style position
1- 2:30pm

No drum experience needed

* Learn to recite and play the basic strokes
* Learn basic music concepts
* Explore different rhythm combinations
* Embody the rhythm

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

INTERMEDIATE
Lap Style Position
3-5:00pm

( Solid Experience needed in the basics)

* Variations on Stroke techniques
* Tuning into the tones
* Roll variations
* Snaps

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Saturday October 22, 2011

BEG 1:00 - 2:30pm $20 / $15 paypal by 10/19

INT 3:00 - 5:00pm $25 / $20 paypal by 10/19

cash/door
RSVP/ paypal mirandarondeau@yahoo.com

Remo Recreational Music Center
7308 Coldwater Canyon Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 91605
818 982 0461

Miranda Rondeau is a singer, frame drum artist and teacher.
http://myspace.com/mirandarondeau

A Night Of Kurdish & Persian Music Concert

2011-09-06T07:04:00.000-07:00

Live In Concert WithKamancheh : Saeid Farajpouri, composer/music director
Tombak and Daf : Pezhham Akhavass
Vocal : Ghazal FeyliBarbat : Ali Sajjadi
Santour : Saina Khaledi
WHEN: Friday, September 30th, 8 PM
WHERE: Los Angeles

Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=241924529169263

Youtube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S2lQb5-ORHc&feature=player_embedded#!

Tickets & Information

949-527-6040

moradiko@gmail.com

Ticket Price

$40

$25 Students (Student ID Required)

Purchase Online

http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/197406

Address

Los Angeles, Skirball Cultural Center, Magnin Auditorium

2701 North Sepulveda Blvd,

Los Angeles, CA 90049

FRAME DRUMS ITALIA Festival, June 2-5, 2011

2011-03-22T08:08:00.000-07:00

The preliminary agenda for the upcoming FRAME DRUMS ITALIA 2011 has been announced and is now online: FRAME DRUMS ITALIA 2011

This year the lineup includes:

ZOHAR FRESCO (riqq, frame drum lap style, improvisation in oriental music)
N SCOTT ROBINSON (riqq, solkattu, tar)
ANDREA PICCIONI (tamburello modern style, tammorra modern style)
YSHAI AFTERMAN (tar, riqq, lap style)
FRANCESCO SAVORETTI (tamburello marchigiano)
PAOLO ROSSETTI "Murittu" (frame drums in music therapy)

This year the price for the full participants has been reduced, thanks to several sponsors who support the event.

FULL ACCOMODATION FROM JUNE 2 TO 5 + ALL THE WORKSHOP + ALL THE SPECIAL EVENTS.......300 euro (all inclusive)

For more information: FRAME DRUMS ITALIA 2011

to read the full program, or write at tamburitalia@gmail.com

Upcoming NAFDA events

2010-08-17T07:34:00.000-07:00

NAFDA North 3 - Vermont Frame Drum Festival -

Oct. 15-16, 2010 in Brattleboro, Vermont, USA.

http://www.nafda1.com/nafdanorth.php

Featuring 5 workshops and concert with Shane Shanahan (kanjira), Mario Monaco (pandeiro), N. Scott Robinson (lap style bodhran), Todd Roach (hybrid tambourine), Tareq Rantisi (riqq), with Ensemble Datura, K. S. Resmi (Carnatic vocal), and Mac Ritchey (oud).

Vendor Booth & Sponsor: Cooperman.

Total cost: $120.00 (when paying in advance) for all! Reservations: nafda1@gmail.com

_________________________________

NAFDA South - Georgia Frame Drum Festival -

Oct. 23, 2010 - Clarkston, Georgia, USA.

http://www.nafda1.com/nafdasouth.php

Featuring 5 workshops and concert with Layne Redmond (frame drums), River Guerguerian (lap style bodhran), Claudinho Santana (pandeiro), N. Scott Robinson (riqq), B. Michael Williams (tar) with N. P. Stottlemyer (tar), Dave Holland, and Winthrop University Percussion Ensemble (playing frame drum compositions by B. Michael Williams & N. Scott Robinson).

Vendor Booth & Sponsors: Cooperman & Contemporânea.

Total cost: $100.00 (when paying in advance) for all! Reservations: nafda1@gmail.com

_______________________________

NAFDA West 2 - California Frame Drum Festival -

Feb. 4-5, 2010 - North Hollywood, California, USA - Remo Recreational Music Center.

http://www.nafda1.com/nafdawest.php

2-day event featuring 8 workshops and 2 concerts with Andrea Piccioni (tamburello), Randy Gloss (pandeiro), Pejman Hadadi (daf), N. Scott Robinson (riqq), Brad Dutz (Irish bodhrán), Todd Roach (hybrid tambourine), Patrick Graham (lap style bodhran), Matt Kilmer (kanjira), with Hands On.semble (Randy Gloss, Andrew Grueschow & Austin Wrinkle), The Mast (Haale Gafori & Matt Kilmer), Miranda Rondeau, and Ensemble Datura (Mac Ritchey, K. S. Resmi, Todd Roach & N. Scott Robinson).

Vendor Booths & Sponsors: Remo & Cooperman.

$200.00 (when paying in advance) for all! Reservations: nafda1@gmail.com

RhythmJuJu and Frame Drum Workshop Cancelled

2010-05-11T21:55:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to let everyone know that the RhythmJuJu and Framedrum workshop events scheduled for this weekend in Nevada City and Grass Valley have been cancelled due to unforseen circumstances with one of the performers.

We'll reschedule for later in the year.

You can find the latest events by Sonic Planet Productions here: http://www.sonicplanetproductions.com

Total Rhythm: Oakland World Percussion Festival 2010

2010-05-04T11:11:00.000-07:00

WHAT: Total Rhythm, Oakland World Percussion Festival 2010
WHEN: Saturday, May 8, 2010, 9am - 6pm
WHERE: Merritt College, 12500 Campus Drive Oakland, CA 94610

"Northern California's Largest One-Day Percussion Event!"

Dive into the rhythms and colors of Brazil!

Learn dynamic and energizing West African and Congolese arrangements!

Feel the power of Middle Eastern percussion, and study the beautiful, folkloric Afro-Cuban Rhythms Makuta and Iyesa.

World Percussion Workshops taught by All-Star Instructors with OVER 100 YEARS of performance, recording and teaching experience.

The Award-winning OWPF 2010 staff has performed and/or recorded with musical legends Ella Fitzgerald - McCoy Tyner - Cachao - David Byrne - Margareth Menezes - Fua Dia Congo - Gilberto Gil - Carlos Santana - Bonnie Riatt - Changuito - Joan Baez - David Rudder - Bobby McFerrin - Starlift Steel Orchestra - Calypso Rose - Giovanni Hidalgo.

Attend an individual workshop(s) or be one of the first 50 purchasers of a FULL-DAY Pass for $50! (After 50 sales, FULL-DAY pass price rises to $75).

African Marketplace * Drum, Percussion & Craft Vendors * Free Parking * Children Under 12 are free * Drums provided, or bring your own!

Oakland World Percussion Festival 2010 At-A-Glance:
8:30 am: Doors Open
9:00 am: Introductory/Welcoming Remarks/All Student JAM
9:30-11:00am: "Colors of Brazil" Workshop with Robert Wallace
11:00am-12:30pm: "Insights into West African Rhythms" Workshop with Ben Isaacs and Gabe Harris
12:30pm-1:30pm: LUNCH BREAK
12:45pm-1:30pm: James and the Hands On Fire Band will be performing
1:30pm-3:00pm: "Middle Eastern Percussion" with Susu Pampanin
3:00pm-4:30pm: "Afro-Cuban Makuta and Iyesa" with Michael Spiro
4:30pm-6:00pm: "Congolese Roots" with Kiazi Malonga
9:00pm-2:00am: Official OWPF 2010 After-Party

Full Festival Day Pass: $75 (For first 50 people: $50)
Includes FREE ADMISSION to Festival After-Party, 9pm-1am
Location in Oakland, CA to be announced.

Flyer Link: http://totalrhythm.com/owpf.pdf
For more information: http://totalrhythm.com/percussion_festival.html

More "Got Riqq?" T-shirts...

2010-04-22T22:44:00.000-07:00

Thanks to those who've responded already! After some discussion, I decided to change the design and create some white t and light t-shirts which are less expensive than the dark t-shirts. I hope that this helps fit your budgets better! I also added several women's clothing designs to give you all some more choices.

I also created a cool tote bag, perfect for carrying your drums and percussion toys to the next drum circle or gig! Enjoy, and thanks for supporting my blog.

All these designs and more can be found on my Cafe Press site: http://www.cafepress.com/sonicplanet

2010-04-22T16:48:00.000-07:00

Alright folks, the NEW "got riqq?" t-shirts are in and ready to order! I've been pulling this idea together for a while and I finally took the steps to get the online shop setup! For the moment, there's only the one design/style, I'll add more as I get the time.

Enjoy, let me know what you think! If you want other clothing styles, let me know!

Order here: http://www.cafepress.com/sonicplanet.441561796

Rhythm JuJu with Marla Leigh and friends

2010-04-18T09:44:00.000-07:00

Here's a teaser for the upcoming Rhythm JuJu event with Marla Leigh and friends in Nevada City on May 14th.

For more information: www.sonicplanetproductions.com

The Art of FrameDrumming Workshop with Marla Leigh

2010-04-17T08:15:00.000-07:00

Sonic Planet Productions Presents

The Art of FrameDrumming Workshop with Marla Leigh

In this compelling workshop, we will uncover the dynamic and magical world of frame drumming and rhythm from the Middle East, Africa and India as well as the art of improvisation.

You will leave this powerful and very informative percussion immersion with all of the tools necessary to become a confident, creative and fully inspired improvising drummer.

WHEN: Saturday, May 15, 10:30am-4pm & Sunday, May 16, 12 -4pm

COSTS: Saturday ONLY, $55 - Saturday and Sunday, $95

Bring a friend and each receive $5 off workshop

WHERE: Grass Valley Taiko Dojo, St Joseph’s Cultural Center, Grass Valley, CA

To Register: Call 530.432.2716 or visit http://www.sonicplanetproductions.com/

About the Instructor: Marla Leigh is a Los Angeles based professional Percussionist, Flautist, Composer and Educator, who specializes in the frame drum. She is a well-recognized teacher and performer in the world of frame drumming, and has created a unique approach both in playing and in teaching this instrument.

For more info: www.sonicplanetproductions.com 530.432.2716 www.marlaleigh.com

RHYTHMJUJU: A World Groove Trance Dance Experience with Marla Leigh

2010-04-17T08:04:00.000-07:00

Sonic Planet Productions Presents

RHYTHMJUJU: A World Groove Trance Dance Experiencewith Marla Leigh and Friends

"Drum sound rises on the air, its throb, my heart. A voice inside the beat says, I know you're tired, but come. This is the way." – Rumi

Come Dance and Celebrate Your Life In Rhythm! Join us for this powerful, healing, percussive ~ dance ritual, featuring ancient sacred drums from India, the Middle East and Africa, tastefully combined with worldy flutes, Hebrew & Sanskrit chants and other worldly instruments.Dance, meditate, release, reveal, explore to sacred sounds from around the world.

Featuring Marla Leigh and special local musicians Aminah Christi (Fanna Fi Allah),Yinon Darwish, Narayan Light and Mike Oitzman.

WHEN: Friday, May 14, 2010, 8 PM - 10 PM

WHERE: Wild Mountain Yoga, 574 Searls Avenue, Nevada City, CA.

TICKETS: $18 / $20 Door Tickets available at: Briar Patch, Record Connection
Sponsored by Wild Mountain Yoga

Brought to you by Sonic Planet Productions
For more info: www.sonicplanetproductions.com or www.marlaleigh.com

Call 530.432.2716

Jabbar Karyagdioglu, Kurban Primov

2010-03-27T10:30:00.000-07:00

Here's an awesome old movie from the 1930's. I am not sure exactly who's playing the drum, the email on FrameDrummer lists Jabbar Karyagdioglu as the famous singer from Azerbaijan singing and playing on Dayere (Ghaval). But the Youtube notes say that it's Kurban Primov (Qurban Pirimov on framedrum. If you know, please leave a comment (in English). The quality isn't great, but it's a charming video:

INTRODUCTION TO BALKAN and MIDDLE EASTERN FRAME DRUMS

2010-02-26T07:49:00.000-08:00

with Rowan Storm
http://www.rowanstorm.com

Saturday 27 February
1:00 - 5:00 pm
$30
Zambaleta World Music and Dance School
2929 19th Street
San Francisco, CA 94110
415.341.1333

http://www.zambaleta.org/courses/206

~ for beginners and intermediate players

~ no previous experience necessary

In this introductory workshop for Middle Eastern Frame Drums, you will learn:
1. Essential elements for playing a variety of Frame Drums, including tambourine, dayereh and daf
2. Whole-brain, whole-body technique
3. Deep rhythmic coordination through movement, voice, and the Frame Drum

Please bring with you if possible:
* Your own Frame Drum, shaker, and recording device
* Notebook and pencil
* A variety of Frame Drums and shakers will be provided for use and purchase, including Rowan Storm's signature Frame Drum: the Rowan Storm Dayereh by Cooperman Drum Company.

Zambaleta World Music and Dance School
2929 19th Street
San Francisco, CA 94110
415.341.1333

for more information and registration:
http://www.zambaleta.org/courses/206

Cooperman Glen Velez Bodhran / Tar on ebay

2010-01-27T11:30:00.000-08:00

Just saw this auction for a Cooperman Glen Velez Bodhran / Tar on ebay.

link: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150408971380

NAFDA Midwestern Frame Drum Festival

2010-01-21T17:06:00.000-08:00

What: Midwestern Frame Drum Festival

When: April 30 - May 1, 2010

Where: St. Louis, Missouri, USA

Cost: $100.00 - all-inclusive for 6 workshops & concert
(lodging, travel & meals - not included)

Address:
Forest Park Campus of St. Louis Community College
5600 Oakland Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63110 USA

Featuring:

Todd Roach

N. Scott Robinson

Matt Kilmer

with guest musicians:

K. S. Resmi (Carnatic vocals)

HaZMaT Percussion Duo: Thomas Zirkle (marimba, frame drums) & Matt Henry (frame drums & world percussion)

Mark Holland (Native American & world flutes)

University of Missouri - Saint Louis Percussion Ensemble

NAFDA Midwest Director: Thomas Zirkle

Workshops:

Workshops: May 1, 2010 - 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

9:00 - 10:15 am - N. Scott Robinson - Pandeiro Techniques

15" Break

10:30am - 12:00 pm - Matt Kilmer - Kanjira Techniques & Rhythms

12:00 - 1:00 pm - Lunch on own

1:00 - 2:15 pm - Todd Roach - Riqq Techniques

15" Break

2:30 - 3:45 pm - N. Scott Robinson - Mediterr-Asian Tambourine Techniques

15" Break

4:00 - 5:00 pm - Matt Kilmer - Lap Style / Bodhran Techniques

5:00 - 6:00 pm - Todd Roach - Tar / Hand Held Frame Drum Techniques

6:00 -7:30 - Dinner on own

Doors open for concert at 7:30 pm

Concert: May 1, 2010 - 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Featuring

Todd Roach & K. S. Resmi with N. Scott Robinson
Matt Kilmer
N. Scott Robinson & Mark Holland (Native American & world flutes)
HaZMaT Percussion Duo: Thomas Zirkle (marimba) & Matt Henry (frame drums & world percussion)
University of Missouri - Saint Louis Percussion Ensemble
(performing the frame drum compositions of Todd Roach & Thomas Zirkle)

For more info: http://www.nafda1.com/nafdamidwest.php

Facebook: NAFDA Frame Drums

NAFDA, Inc.: Frame Drums Group

Handsonic 10 Demo at NAMM

2010-01-21T11:21:00.001-08:00

The Rhythm Alliance

2010-01-21T09:56:00.000-08:00

I just stumbled on this organization: The Rhythm Alliance
Their mission is: "to raise the level and awareness of drumming as well as support for drummers through education and cooperation."

Here's an excerpt from their recent press release (1/15/2010):

"After supporting many of the world’s most popular and influential musicians with their spectacular time-keeping and impeccable musicianship in the studio and on the road, a group of today’s top drummers have joined together in an effort to support their fellow drummers. The organization is called the “Rhythm Alliance” and its principals, Gorden Campbell, Teddy Campbell, Gerald Heyward, Marvin McQuitty, Aaron Spears and Nisan Stewart, are all worldclass drum artists who have performed and collaborated with a host of world-class entertainers from Earth, Wind & Fire, Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Chris Brown, Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige and Michael Jackson to Fred Hammond, The Winans, Usher, Backstreet Boys, Jesse McCartney, Timbaland, P-Diddy and Jay-Z plus the American Idol show on TV and on tour.
The Alliance’s mission is to raise the level and awareness of drumming along with support for the drumming community through educational materials such as magazine articles, flyers, posters, books and videos as well as appearances at educational events including drum shows, festivals and conventions. As the first step towards fulfilling its mission, the Rhythm Alliance will perform at the 2010 International Drummers for Jesus Celebration, March 26 - 27, 2010 in Dallas, Texas. Drummers For Jesus (drummersforjesus.com) is dedicated to creating a worldwide network of drummers and percussionists who use their drumming to spread the positive message of Jesus Christ and past DFJ events have featured Sheila E, Vinnie Colaiuta, Gregg Bissonette, Zoro, Tommy Aldridge, Louie Bellson, Danny Seraphine, Luis Conte, Chris Coleman, Russ Miller, John Blackwell Jr., Will Kennedy, Derico Watson, Paul Leim and many others. Plans for additional Rhythm Alliance activities will be announced as they are confirmed.
The Alliance drummers are also committed to working with the companies whose products they endorse to develop and promote instruments and accessories that will bring fresh sounds to a wide range of contemporary styles and increased access to a diversity of players. These companies currently include Drum Workshop, Modern Drummer, Pro-Mark, Remo, Roland, Shure, Vater, Vic Firth, Yamaha and Zildjian. As the Alliance continues to grow, its members intend to contribute a portion of their income from event fees and product sales back to the drumming community in the form of scholarships and donations to music education programs."

So while it appears that initially this organization initially consists of a group of well known commercial kits drummers and percussionists, I would encourage some of you to reach out to this fledgeling organization and see what you can contribute to it's growth, success and inclusion of world drumming.

Links: http://www.drummersforjesus.com/html/dfj_celebration.php

Women Frame Drumming Channel on Youtube

2010-01-02T19:41:00.000-08:00

Layne Redmond has a new Women Frame Drumming channel on YouTube:

Here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/user/WomenFrameDrumming

2009-12-15T23:17:00.000-08:00

Drummer Kenne Thomas has written a nice book on Middle Eastern rhythms and it has been released in USA.

I haven't read it yet but it looks like a great resource for those who are interested in dumbek, riq and Middle Eastern rhythms.

Here is Kenne's website, where you can see how to buy the book.

http://www.mninter.net/~thomasjp/book-DumbekDance.html

DRUMS OF ILLUMINATION

2009-10-21T09:29:00.000-07:00

DRUMS OF ILLUMINATION
Women and Frame Drums from Around the World

with
ALESSANDRA BELLONI, JUDY PIAZZA, MIRANDA RONDEAU, DANA MAMAN

Workshops and concert honoring the feminine and healing power of the drum
Saturday & Sunday, November 7 & 8, 2009

For women and men; no previous experience necessary

Workshops:
Saturday, November 7th
1:00 - 3:00 Miranda Rondeau - Introduction to Frame Drums
3:30 - 6:00 Dana Maman- Brazilian Pandeiro
Concert – Saturday – 7:30 (Concert fee $15) ... Also featuring special dancers

Sunday, November 8th
1:00 - 3:00 Judy Piazza - Egyptian Riqq (Tambourine)
3:30 – 6:00 Alessandra Belloni – Southern Italian Tambourine and trance dances

Fees: Two days, including 4 workshops & concert, $ 125
One day, $75 (includes concert)

Payment at the door: accepted by cash or check
For pre-registration: Mail Check / MO to Judy Piazza, PoBox 1825,Ojai CA 93024,
( 248) 563-0049; judypiazza@gmail.com

LOCATION:
REMO Recreational Music Center
7308 Coldwater Canyon Ave. North Hollywood, CA 91605
(818) 982-0461 ~ contact Mike or Jerry
www.remo.com

Alessandra Belloni - artistic director, internationally renowned
tambourine virtuoso, singer, dancer, actress, author - REMO artist -
www.alessandrabelloni.com – www.youtube.com/alessandrabelloni

Judy Piazza, internationally known and recognized for her
extraordinary talents, skilled teaching, and generous spirit.
www.resonanceandrhythms.com / www.myspace.com/judypiazza

Miranda Rondeau, Devotional singer frame drum artist, and teacher
passionate creator of online Women Frame Drumming about WDF
www.myspace.com/womenframedrumming / www.myspace.com/mirandarondeau

Dana Maman – Musician involved with capoeira and Afro-Brazilian
drumming for over 10 years, studying primarily under Mestre Amen Santo
www.danamaman.com.

--
Event coordinated by:
Judy Piazza
Resonance & Rhythms
248-563-0049
www.resonanceandrhythms.com
www.myspace.com/judypiazza

Scholarship available for NAFDA West

2009-10-15T08:24:00.000-07:00

I committed to the NADFA West event happening this weekend in LA, and I've already paid for my slot. But I can't make the event now. So I am offering my slot as a scholarship to someone else. If you wanted to come, but couldn't afford it, here's your chance! If you know someone in the LA area who might like to attend, please forward this message.

Contact either myself or N. Scott Robinson for details.

email: mike DOT oitzman AT gmail DOT com

Complete details about the event: http://www.nafda1.com/

NEW SEPTEMBER DRUMMING INTENSIVES with Marla Leigh

2009-08-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

Experience the magic of drumming...

In these special drumming intensive, Marla will explore:

Frame Drumming in upright and lap style playing.
Traditional Middle Eastern and Sufi Rhythms.
Moroccan & Ghanaian Drumming & Rhythms.
Introduction to Solkattu (South Indian Rhythmic Vocalization).
How to easily improvise in all meters.
How to notate for hand drums.
Gentle Yoga stretches to prepare your body for drumming.

Frame Drums + African Drums provided. All Levels Welcome

DETAILS:

Beginning Intensives:
Saturday's, September 5 & 19, 1-4pm

Intermediate Intensives:
Sunday's, September 6 & 20, 2-5pm

Location:
Private home in Topanga, CA

Fee:
Only $95 for two, three hour class sessions
$50 single class supplement

Special Discount:
Bring a friend, and each receive $10 off
(applicable for both full registration & single classes)

SPACE IS VERY LIMITED TO ONLY 8 PEOPLE.
PLEASE RSVP ASAP TO SECURE YOUR SPACE AS THIS CLASS TENDS TO FILL UP QUICK!

TO REGISTRAR:
Please send payment via paypal to marla@maraleigh.com, or mail a check to
Marla Leigh, Po box 293, Topanga, CA
If you are going to send a check, please email Marla to let her know to
expect it

WHAT OTHERS SAY ABOUT MARLA¹S WORKSHOPS:

"After taking Marla¹s class, I now love drumming so much, I want to quit my day job"
-Susan Sheldon

"Marla is a patient, inspiring and wonderful teacher"
-Martha Lane

--
Marla Leigh Goldstein, MFA
Percussionist, Flautist, Composer
http://www.marlaleigh.com

Peyman Nasehpour's Tonbak, Dayereh and Daf Classes and Workshop

2009-08-08T10:13:00.000-07:00

When: Sunday, Sept 6, 2009

Time: 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Where: Elternschule Farmsen-Berne
Bekassinenau 126
Hamburg, 22147,
Germany

For more info: http://events.kodoom.com/en/43250262/Peyman-Nasehpour-s-Tonbak-Hamburg

Iranian drumming classes and workshop for all levels. Tonbak, Dayereh and Daf classes and workshop by Peyman Nasehpour

Peyman Nasehpour, born in Tehran, is a tonbak, ghaval and daf player, tabla researcher and the oldest child of maestro Nasrollah Nasehpoor (vocalist and master of radif repertoire of Persian art music). He has a Master’s Degrees in pure mathematics from Tehran University and has played along great musicians such as Habil Aliev, Mohammad Reza Lotfi, Majid Derakhshani and Peter Giger.

Links:
http://performers.kodoom.com/en/Peyman-Nasehpour
http://events.kodoom.com/en/43250262/Peyman-Nasehpour-s-Tonbak-Hamburg

ART OF HAND DRUMMING AUGUST WORKSHOPS

2009-07-31T13:22:00.000-07:00

ART OF HAND DRUMMING AUGUST WORKSHOPS!
Explore the tools to be creative and confident drummer while learn drumming styles from the Middle East, Africa and India with Marla Leigh!

Location: Private home in Topanga, CA

Beginning Class:
August 3, 10, 24, 7-9pm

Intermediate Class:
August 12, 19, 26 7-9pm

Fee: $80 for 3 class session, $30 single class

Drums provided. All Levels Welcome

More information:
http://www.marlaleigh.com/ArtofHanddrumming.htm

PRIVATE LESSON SPECIAL :
Marla is offering a 15% discount if you purchase 2 or 3 lessons in advance (for the month of August only)

2009-07-28T13:23:00.001-07:00

David Kuckhermann has a new advanced frame drum DVD series out. Here's a trailer:

N Scott Robinson on Tour

2009-07-27T13:48:00.000-07:00

I caught a concert yesterday with N. Scott Robinson and Mark Holland who are out here in California touring for their new album: Wind & Fire.

Mark plays Native American and other world flutes and Scott plays his collection of world percussion on the album. I've been listening to the album all day while I've been working. It's highly recommended.

They still have a few tour dates left. Check either of their websites for more details.

Riqq Classes in LA

2009-07-01T14:25:00.000-07:00

Evan Gavriel Fiske will be giving some riq workshops this summer in LA:

Riq workshop series Los Angeles 2009

Wednesdays, July 15, 22, 29 and August 5

Beginners 7-8:30 pm

Classical, cabaret and folkloric holding positions
10-12 essential Middle-Eastern rhythms
Development exercises, finger rolls, odd-meter rhythms and more
Learn a new instrument this summer!

Intermediate 8:30-10 pm

Focus on classical technique and finger rolls
Advanced development and independence exercises
Rare traditional and long rhythms such as 13, 14, 16 and 19 beats
Focus on solos, accompaniment and the full sonic potential of the riq

Classes $25 each, or $80 pre-reg for all 4

Classes at Studio Iqaat in Eagle Rock
3515 Eagle Rock Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90065

To register or for questions email: gavrielsdrum at yahoo dot com. Evan will also be available during this time for private lessons in Venice Beach.

Evan is originally from California, and lived in Egypt for most of 1999 and 2000 and much of the class material is based on his studies there. For the last 7 years he has been based in Israel.

Check out his website: www.drumwise.net

Visit with Kobi Hagoel

2009-05-09T00:16:00.000-07:00

I was able to find some time to met Kobi Hagoel in Israel this weekend. I traveled by train from Tel Aviv to his home in a small town outside of Tel Aviv.
Israel is an interesting place. I am glad that I was able to visit Kobi and experience how the "rest of Israel" lives, so that my impressions of life in Israel weren't skewed by experiencing life only in Tel Aviv (which is a big city, with all of pros/cons of a big city...).
Kobi welcomed my into his home and his studio (which happens to double as a bomb shelter...). We spent lot's of time working on Riq technique's (I was woefully out of practice...) and then some time on rhythm's. Again I was reminded of how fast a player Kobi is. He is well practiced and articulate in his style.
Near the end of our session, I pulled out my Native American Flutes and we jammed for bit.

NAFDA North 2

2009-05-01T17:52:00.000-07:00

NAFDA North 2 - Cooperman Frame Drum Festival - Oct. 2-3, 2009 in Brattleboro, Vermont, USA

WEB: http://www.nafda1.com/nafdanorth.php

$100.00 per person for all workshops & concert (not including travel, lodging and meals)

Director: Todd Roach

Oct. 2 - Informal Concert / Jam Session

featuring all artists & special guests

Free

Workshops: Oct. 3, 2009

Patrick Graham - Mediterr-Asian Tambourine Techniques

Todd Roach - Frame Drum Compositions

Shane Shanahan - Modern Lap-style Bodhran Techniques

N. Scott Robinson - Riqq Techniques

Randy Gloss - Pandeiro Techniques

Oct. 3 - Concert - 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

(Open to the public - ticket required - $12.00)

Featuring

Todd Roach, Randy Gloss, N. Scott Robinson, Shane Shanahan, Patrick Graham with guest musicians: Mac Ritchey (oud) & K. S. Resmi (Carnatic Vocals)

RESERVATIONS: nafda1@gmail.com

Broken riqq

2009-05-01T17:39:00.000-07:00

OUCH! Unfortunately, I went to pack my riq for my trip to Israel and I discovered that the fish skin head had pulled away from the shell. Looks like no riq for this trip. I talked to the guys at Cooperman today and I am shipping it back to them for reheading. I am going to go with the weatherking head this time, the fish skin is too temperamental.

NAFDA West

2009-04-30T22:41:00.000-07:00

NAFDA West - California Frame Drum Festival

October 17, 2009 - North Hollywood, California, USA

REMO Recreational Music Center
7308 Coldwater Canyon (1/2 block North of Sherman Way)
North Hollywood, California 91605 USA

$100.00 (US) - all-inclusive for workshops & concert (lodging, travel
& meals not included)

RESERVATIONS: nafda1@gmail.com

Workshops: Oct. 17, 2009

9:00 am - 10:15 am - Dror Sinai - Introduction to Tar & Bendir

BREAK - 15"

10:30 am - 11:45 am - Houman Pourmehdi - Techniques & Rhythms of Persian Daf

BREAK - 15"

LUNCH on own - 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm - N. Scott Robinson - Modern Bodhran Techniques

BREAK - 15"

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm - Brad Dutz - Pandeiro Techniques & Rhythms

BREAK - 15"

4:00 pm - 5:00 pm - Randy Gloss - Kanjira Techniques

5:00 pm - 6:00 pm - Abbos Kosimov - Uzbek Doyra Techniques

DINNER on own - 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Concert: John Bergamo Tribute

Oct. 17, 2009 - Concert - 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Doors open: 7:30 pm

(Open to the public - $15.00 at door - cash only)

Featuring:

John Bergamo Dedication,

Hands On'semble (Randy Gloss, Austin Wrinkle & Andrew Grueschow),

Abbos Kosimov,

Houman Pourmehdi,

K. S. Resmi (Carnatic Vocals) & N. Scott Robinson,

Dror Sinai,

Miranda Rondeau,

Brad Dutz

--
North American Frame Drum Association, Inc.

WEB: http://www.nafda1.com

NAFDA South

2009-04-29T22:40:00.000-07:00

NAFDA South
[Editor's note: updated on 5/1/2009]

NAFDA South - Southern Frame Drum Festival
September 12, 2009 in Kennesaw, Georgia, USA

WEB: http://www.nafda1.com/nafdasouth.php

Hosted by

Georgia Center for the Arts / Murray Arts Center
2250 Stilesboro Road
Kennesaw, Georgia 30152 USA

$100.00 per person for all workshops & concert (not including travel, lodging and meals)

Director: Dave Holland

Featuring:

Workshops by

-Yousif Sheronick - Modern Bodhran Techniques

-Matt Kilmer - Ocean Drum & Kanjira Techniques

-N. Scott Robinson - Riqq Techniques

-Randy Gloss - Hand Held Frame Drum Techniques

-Rafael Pereira - Pandeiro Techniques

Evening Concert with (Subject to Change):

-Winthrop University Percussion Ensemble

-B. Michael Williams

-Todd Roach

-The New Aiyê Project - André Rievers (guitar & vocal), Rafael Pereíra, Juan Bonini (percussion)

-Paul "River" Guerguerian & John Vorus (didjeridu & electronics)

-N. Scott Robinson & K. S. Resmi (Carnatic vocals)

-Matt Kilmer

-Yousif Sheronick

-Randy Gloss

RESERVATIONS: nafda1@gmail.com

Frame Drums and Singing ~ Private Lessons and Workshop

2009-04-28T22:39:00.000-07:00

with Rowan Storm
Athens Greece, 27 April - 23 June 2009

Frame Drums and Singing
~ and other Middle Eastern Percussion
~ Private Lessons and
~ Frame Drums and Singing Workshop (more info soon)

Private lessons for percussion instruments including:
- Frame Drums: bendir, tambourine (riq), daff, and Rowan Storm Dayereh, now in production at Cooperman Drums
- Darbukka, (dumbek or tumbeleki), tombak, finger cymbals

- For beginners through advanced
- Learn efficient technique, empowering you to play for many hours with stamina and confidence
- Learn to play with authority and power, from the most basic to complex rhythms
- Learn to improvise and stay grounded 'in time'
- Learn to play with ensembles of traditional music
- Learn to play with percussion groups
- Learn to sing and play simultaneously, with songs from Armenia, Greece, Turkey, Iran

- Greek, English, Persian languages spoken

ALSO:
30 and 31 May
Frame Drums and Singing ~ Weekend Workshop
with Carpet Concert
~ more info coming soon

Please contact
rowanstorm@carpetconcert.com
0030 210 3643685

NAFDA Canada - Canadian Frame Drum Festival

2009-04-27T07:37:00.000-07:00

NAFDA Canada - Canadian Frame Drum Festival - 6 spots left!

Cost: $90.00 Canadian (or $75.00 US dollars) for all 6 workshops and the 2 hour concert.

Event is all-inclusive only - pay one price for entire day
(does not include travel, meals or lodging).

RESERVATIONS: nafda1@gmail.com

June 14, 2009 - Sunday

at The Royal Conservatory
273 Bloor Street West
Toronto, Ontario M5S 1W2 Canada

Workshops - 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

with Trichy Sankaran - South Indian kanjira, Ziya Tabassian - Persian daf, Patrick Graham - Mediterr-Asian Tambourine, N. Scott Robinson - modern bodhran, Steafan Hannigan - Irish bodhran, Alan Hetherington - Brazilian pandeiro.

Concert - 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm (open to public - $15.00 per ticket)

featuring: Trichy Sankaran, Todd Roach, Thamima Sousa de Carvalho, N. Scott Robinson & K. S. Resmi, Cairdeas (Steafan Hannigan with Saskia Thomkins and Elizabeth Barlow), Patrick Graham & Gary Diggins, Alan Hetherington & Wagner Petrilli and Escola de Samba de Toronto.

WEB: http://www.nafda1.com/nafdacanada.php - ENGLISH

http://www.nafda1.com/nafdacanada2.php - FRENCH

__________________________________________________________

NAFDA Canada Frame Drum Scholarship - APPLY NOW!

Awarded to a one deserving Canadian university percussion student to cover the workshop & concert cost of NAFDA Canada frame drum festival (90$ CAD total value). To apply, applicants should send proof of student status (meaning a copy of your university ID and a recommendation letter from your private teacher at the program you are registered for on university letterhead in English), a short 3-5 minutes video demonstration (DVD-R minus video in NTSC format only) of your percussion ability with a letter stating your full name, address, e-mail, and experiences and interest in hand drumming. The winner will be decided by vote by a panel of 3 judges drawn from the NAFDA Canada artist roster with attention given to university percussionists with a demonstrated hand drumming ability who send in complete applications by the deadline.

DEADLINE to apply: May 15, 2009

Winner announced by e-mail - June 1, 2009

Send completed applications to:

Patrick Graham
308 Murray Street
Greenfield Park, Quebec
J4V 1N7 Canada

I will be in Israel in May

2009-04-26T22:43:00.001-07:00

I will traveling to Israel for 10 days next month. I am looking forward to connecting with Kobi Hagoel and others. Drop me a line if you're in Israel and want to get together and jam, I'll be bringing my Riqq and several Native American style flutes with middle eastern tunings...

Amazing Darbuka Solo

2009-04-26T22:34:00.000-07:00

Check out this kid:

Cooperman Artist Series Riqq on eBay

2009-03-02T10:23:00.000-08:00

There's an auction for a Cooperman Artist series Riqq:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250382348751

It's not particularly cheap, especially with the $67.68 shipping...

Tamburi Mundi 2009

2009-02-13T05:47:00.000-08:00

Tamburi Mundi - huge international frame drum festival in Freiburg,
in Breisgau, Baden-Württemberg - Germany

Info: info@tamburimundi.de

Web: http://www.tamburimundi.com/circle/index.php? ?
option=com_content&view=section&layout=blog&id=7&Itemid=100026&lang=en

Featuring workshops & concerts by:

Glen Velez & Lori Cotler
Ramesh Shotham
Hakim Ludin
Andrea Piccioni
Murat Coºkun
Todd Roach
N. Scott Robinson & K. S. Resmi
David Kuckhermann
Joss Turnbull
Michael Metzler
Gilson de Assis
Nora Thiele
Michael Metzler
Thórralf Schuh
Bruno Spagna
Shakir Ertek
Sattor Fozilov
and more!

Vendors - Cooperman, Anklang Musikwelt, and many others!

NAFDA North 2 - Cooperman Frame Drum Festival 2

2009-02-12T17:41:00.000-08:00

NAFDA North 2 - Cooperman Frame Drum Festival 2

Get this event on your calendars now! It will sell out again this year!!

WHEN: Oct. 2-3, 2009 in Brattleboro, Vermont, USA

COST: $100.00

Reservations: nafda1@gmail.com

Info: http://www.nafda1.com/nafdanorth.php

Workshops by:

Patrick Graham - Mediterr-Asian Tambourine Techniques
Yousif Sheronick - Lap Style Frame Drumming
David Kuckhermann - Tar & Hand Held Frame Drum Techniques
N. Scott Robinson - Riqq Techniques
Todd Roach - Frame Drum Compositions

Concerts on Oct. 2 & 3, 2009

Featuring: Yousif Sheronick, David Kuckhermann, N. Scott Robinson &
K. S. Resmi (Carnatic vocals), Patrick Graham, and Todd Roach & Mac
Ritchey (oud).

NAFDA Canada

2009-02-11T12:46:00.000-08:00

NOTE: The date has been changed! This is a revised post!!

NAFDA Canada - Canadian Frame Drum Festival - June 14, 2009 - Sunday in Toronto!

Featuring artists from Canada, India, Ireland, USA, and Iran.

Location:

The Royal Conservatory of Music
273 Bloor Street West
Toronto, Ontario M5S 1W2 Canada

COST - $90.00 Canadian ($75.00 US) - all-inclusive (lodging, travel &
meals not included)

RESERVATIONS - nafda1@gmail.com

INFO - http://www.nafda1.com/nafdacanada.php

Workshops: June 14, 2009 - SUNDAY - 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Trichy Sankaran - Kanjira Techniques & Style
Patrick Graham - Mediterr-Asian Tambourine Techniques
Ziya Tabassian - Persian Daf & Dayereh Techniques & Rhythms
N. Scott Robinson - Modern Bodhran Techniques
Alan Hetherington - Brazilian Pandeiro Techniques & Rhythms
Steáfán Hannigan - Irish Bodhrán Techniques & Rhythms

Concert: June 14, 2009 - Sunday - 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Featuring

Trichy Sankaran & Suba Sankaran,

Steáfán Hannigan (percussion, uilleann pipes, tin whistle & laptop)
with Cairdeas: Saskia Tomkins (fiddle, nyckelharpa), Elizabeth Barlow
(voice & harp), Oisin Hannigan (bodhrán) & dancers Eile Hannigan and
Ayisha Hannigan,

N. Scott Robinson & K. S. Resmi (Carnatic vocals),

Patrick Graham & Debashis Sinha (percussion & electronics),

Ziya Tabassian,

Todd Roach,

Alan Hetherington & Escola de Samba de Toronto,

& Alderville First Nation Drummers (all-female singing frame drummers)!

VENDOR: Cooperman will have a booth with frame drums for sale.

Glen Velez San Francisco Frame Drum Intensive Training

2009-01-03T09:34:00.000-08:00

Glen Velez
San Francisco Frame Drum Intensive Training, sponsored in part by Cooperman

Three Weekends: February-May 2009

Join Grammy-award winning musician Glen Velez for an intensive training with the frame drum. This 3 part weekend series will explore the wide range of frame drum techniques which form the basis of Velez's playing. Included in the series are detailed exercises and systematic approaches to developing the sounds and finger manipulations needed to produce the extensive array of musical forms and rhythms used by Velez in his performances.

Students will learn methods for enhancing their sense of steady pulse by using vocalizations and stepping. This use of voice and simple body movements effectively increases one's feeling of groove and syncopation. As an important support to our drumming we will use overtone singing to increase our awareness of breathing as well as drum language to accelerate our learning of new rhythms. Frame drum techniques from the Middle East, South India, Central Asia and South Italy will be thoroughly covered in the classes. We will learn how to master the individual styles, as well as incorporate them into a hybrid frame drum style, while using our new knowledge to examine and develop drum compositions. As a group we will discover the potential of the frame drum as a solo instrument, a drum ensemble instrument, and as an instrument for meditative self reflection.

INFO will appear here: http://www.ciis.edu/publicprograms

Event contact: publicprograms@ciis.edu

Glen Velez: http://www.glenvelez.com

Glen Velez & Lori Cotler - Concert & Workshop

2008-12-03T21:53:00.000-08:00

Glen Velez & Lori Cotler - Concert & Workshop

Live Performance

When: Friday, December 5, 2008 at 7:00 PM

Glen Velez & Lori Cotler with special guest Cello Virtuoso Dr.
Constance E. Barrett

Workshop

(No experience necessary)

When: Saturday, December 6, 2008

Frame Drum & Shakers with Glen Velez
Rhythm Voice with Lori Cotler

For info & registration:

http://www.stjosephofarimathea.dioceseny.org/outreach.htm

Hosted by St. Joseph of Arimathea Episcopal Church
2172 Saw Mill River Road
White Plains, NY 10607
(914) 592-7166

Jarrod Cagwin Riqq Solo

2008-11-25T09:48:00.000-08:00

Jarrod Cagwin on riqq:

Jarrod Cagwin Frame Drum solo

2008-11-25T09:45:00.000-08:00

Here's a Video of Jarrod Cagwin on an Eckermann 55 Conductor Series frame drum

The Bergamo Project

2008-10-29T16:01:00.000-07:00

There will be a special tribute to John Bergamo at PASIC this year. The special evening takes place on Friday night, November 7, 2008. This showcase concert will feature the work of John Bergamo by his colleagues and students. A wide range of Bergamo's percussion compositions will be performed by members of Repercussion Unit, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri with Hands On'semble and Houman Pourmehdi.

Sponsors: Cooperman Drum, Remo, Marimba One, and OMRadio.com

WHEN: November 7th, 2008, 9:00 pm - 10:30 pm
WHERE: PASIC, Austin, TX.

For more details (and to contribute to the event): http://www.bergamoproject.org/

Upcoming Drumming events on the East Coast

2008-10-11T22:21:00.000-07:00

**COOPERMAN FRAME DRUM FESTIVAL IN VERMONT!**
Featuring clinics and performances by:
Todd Roach, N Scott Robinson, David Kuckhermann, Marla Leigh, Patrick Graham
and Yousif Sheronick
+ special guests: KS Resmi, Mac Ritchey, John DeKadt & Rowan Storm

Price is only $75 for all workshops and concerts!!
CONCERT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC on Nov 1 for $12, (reservations recommended)!

MORE INFORMATION : http://www.nafda1.com/nafdanorth.php

***********************************

**Workshops in Rochester & Woodstock NY:**
YOGA OF DRUMMING AND RHYTHM:

Workshop includes experiencing:
DRUMMING:
*Drumming styles & rhythms from India, Africa & Middle East
*South Indian rhythmic exercises for the voice (³Solkattu²)
*Introduction to Tabla language & Indian time cycles
*How to easily improvise in even/odd meters
*Fun group pieces based of West African/Moroccan Drumming Music

PLUS:
*Gentle yoga stretches for Drummers
*Movement meditation & Pranayama to live music by Marla
Please bring a drum, all levels welcome!

October 26th- 2:00pm- 4:00pm $15 pre/$20 door
Sage Center For Healing Arts, Woodstock, NY
MORE INFO/REGISTRATION: http://www.sagehealingarts.com

November 15 @ 1pm, $15 member, $20 general
Rochester Jewish Community Center, Rochester, NY
MORE INFO/REGISTRATION : http://www.jccrochester.org
***********************************

**ADVANCED FRAME DRUM WORKSHOP IN NYC!**

In this special workshop, we will learn a variety of techniques that will
truly deepen your knowledge of the frame drum!
Some of the topics covered will include:

*Split Hand Playing Technique
*Snapping and Rolls
*Free Hand Style Playing
*Fancy ³Moroccan² Twirls
*Italian Techniques
*Double Frame Drum Playing
*Solkattu (South Indian Vocal Percussion) reciting while drumming
+ Instructional Handouts for you to take home

Intermediate -Advanced levels. Beginners also welcome, just know we will not
be covering ³the basics² (ie. how to hold drum/play basic strokes etc)
Please bring a frame drum (some will be provided)

Date: November 23
Time: 2-5pm
Location: 20 min outside NYC, from trainline Metro North (w/ free pickup
from train station)
Fee: $40 pre reg, $50 at door

MORE INFO/REGISTRATION:
http://www.marlaleigh.com/AdvancedFrameDrumWkshop.htm

***********************************

**LIVE MUSIC FOR ANANDA RITAM YOGA EVENTS with Saul David Raye**
Blissful yoga & music adventures in paradise, please join us! Private
drumming Lessons will be avail @ all retreats.

*Ananda Ritam Yoga class in NYC!!!
Exhale, 980 Madison, NYC
Oct 16, 630-845pm

*Thai Yoga Massage Retreat at Kripalu, MA
(Oct 17-19)

*Ananda Ritam Retreat at Kripalu, MA
(Oct 20-24)

*Thanksgiving Celebration & Retreat in Ojai, CA
(November 28-30)

MORE INFO : http://www.thaiyoga.com

Andrea Piccioni has new website

2008-10-10T18:21:00.001-07:00

Andrea Piccioni has his new website up, and it's a nice design (in my opinion). He's still putting content online, but you can listen to tracks from his albums, and check out his quiver of instruments. If you have a link to his old site, (the .com site) delete it and link to his new site: http://www.andreapiccioni.net

The Arab Dance Seminar Oct 24-26, 2008

2008-09-29T13:10:00.000-07:00

For The First Time in The Boston Area, The Fourth East Coast Session of:

THE ARAB DANCE SEMINAR
When: Friday-Sunday October 24th-26th, 2008
Where: Cambridge (Central SQ) MASS, USA
http://www.arabdanceseminar.com/

- From "BellyDance" to Berber, Zaar to Zeffa, come and learn the fullest scope of dances from the Arab world.
- We will teach you the movements, the music, and the meaning behind several dance genres and styles.
- We limit the registrants to 40, and provide an intimate and intense educational experience for students.

Teachers and performers include:
Karim Nagi, Amel Tafsout, Cassandra Shore, Kay Hardy Campbell, & Rachid Halihal

Subjects and workshops include:
Raqs Sharqi, Saidi, Dabkaat, Amazigh/Berber, North African, Khaligi/Gulf, Bedouin, Zaar, & Zeffa,
plus classes in Arabic Language, Rhythm, Arabic Music, History, Costume, and Culture.

Complete info and registration at http://www.arabdanceseminar.com , or scroll down.

The ARAB DANCE SEMINAR (October 24th-26th, 2008 - the East Coast session) is the first repeating event of its kind in America. All previous Seminars since November 2005 have sold out with maximum attendance. This is the first time the Seminar is being held in the Boston area. The goal of this intensive weekend of workshops, lectures, performances and dance parties is to give the student a comprehensive Arab cultural dance experience. Going beyond nebulous "Bellydance" or generic "Middle Eastern" categories, the Seminar puts all the skills, techniques and practices back into their cultural contexts. The Arab world, home of over 20 countries in 4 zones (North Africa, Egypt, Levant, and The Gulf) is the origin and breeding ground for multiple styles and practices with a common language and aesthetic. This Seminar helps clarify and illuminate that tradition.

The Arab Dance Seminar is created for people with a minimum of 2 years dance experience. The faculty seeks to give every student the authentic techniques, choreographies, and comprehension of Arab dance. Every dancer will take every workshop and lecture; there is no layered scheduling that forces the student to choose between classes. The Music classes will be taught using generic language that is understandable to non-musicians. The student will be provided with study sheets and recordings that reflect the curriculum. Every dancer will leave the Seminar with new routines to perform and teach, plus a responsible cultural understanding of the dance and music.

Special focal topic for this session:
MARRIAGE & MOVEMENT : How Dance & Music Are Central To WEDDINGS in the Arab World.
The October 2008 East Coast Arab Dance Seminar will focus on the Wedding Ceremony. At no other events in the Arab world are music and dance more prevalent, endorsed, and enjoyed than in wedding and engagement ceremonies. Dance and Music are part of the mainstream entertainment for both village and urban weddings. Dance and Music are also participatory, and communally enjoyed by the guests, wedding party, and even the bride and groom. This Seminar will re-enact, analyze, and enjoy many of the songs, choreographies, and rituals of the Arab wedding. These include the Zaffa procession, the Dabka line dances, the Henna nights, the coffee rituals, the songs, and the professional entertainment.

Although there is an academic and ethnographic emphasis, there are neither desks nor computer stations. The student will learn by dancing, moving, singing, clapping and sweating. It is an active seminar where the goal is to physically practice the subjects, and to retain new knowledge for future performances and teaching.

http://www.arabdanceseminar.com/

Dance Relevance:
It's time to go beyond Bellydance ! With the enormous explosion of dance enthusiasm in the USA, it is often forgotten where the origin of this phenomenon occurred. Many dancers today do not know the ethnic origin, cultural context, social implications or national varieties of the dances they are performing. Often the lyrical content of each song is also unknown by the dancer. Few dancers know the inner workings and systems of the musical compositions they choreograph and perform to. These factors cause a huge homogenization, resulting in the artistic displacement of the art form. This Arab Dance Seminar gives the dancer the tools and knowledge needed to be a more informed presenter, as well as a more skilled performer and teacher. The instructors are either native primary sources, highly schooled professionals who have lived in Arab countries, or both. They will help each dancer unite the soul, brain and body to create the true authentic dance.

Societal Relevance:
Arab culture has always been a fascination for Westerners. The Orientalist painters of the 17 and 18th centuries like Gerome and Delacroix were obsessed with the street market and household scenes of Arab lands. Currently, modern singers like Beyonce, Sting, Jay-Z and Shakira use the melodies and rhythms on their CDs and dance moves in their videos. Every major college and university teaches Arabic language, and has a Middle Eastern Studies department. But this fascination occurs with a simultaneous fear and paranoia. There is an ongoing media pre-occupation with the political and military turmoil in the Arab world. The Arabs have been designated as the antagonists in a proposed "clash of civilizations." There is no Arab in America that does not experience some type of political existence by default (even while simply dancing or singing). It is our belief that the study of dance and music can humanize the study of Arab culture and people. The enjoyment and cultural knowledge gained from the study and practice of human arts can dissolve the fictitious Arab-West dichotomy.

Schedule:
Classes will start at 4pm Friday October 24th and end by 4pm Sunday October 26th.

Locations:
Lectures & Performances are held at:
-YWCA Hannum Hall, 7 Temple St. Cambridge, MA 02139 (Friday 4pm -9pm, and Saturday 7pm - 11:30pm)
Dance Classes are held at:
-DANCE COMPLEX Studio #1, 536 Mass. Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139 (Saturday 9:30am - 6pm, Sunday 10:30am-4pm)

Fees: (purchase by CC or PayPal at www.arabdanceseminar.com): pre-registration ONLY, no at-door admittance.

FEE for ENTIRE SEMINAR : All Classes & concerts from Friday thru Sunday (YWCA & Dance Complex): $290

FRIDAY WORKSHOPS ONLY : Arabic Language, Arabic Music, Culture and History. $140
@ YWCA Hannum Hall 7 Temple St. Cambridge, MA (Friday 4pm -9pm)

SATURDAY WORKSHOPS ONLY: Egyptian Raqs Sharqi, Khaligi, Zeffa, Henna Party, and Amazigh/Berber. $190
@ Dance Complex Studio #1, 536 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139 (Saturday 9:30am - 6pm)

SATURDAY NIGHT CONCERT & DANCE PARTY ONLY: Performances by Cassandra, Amel Tafsout, Karim Nagi & Rachid Halihal. $20
@ YWCA Hannum Hall 7 Temple St. Cambridge, MA (Saturday 7pm - 11:30pm)

SUNDAY WORKSHOPS ONLY : Dabka, Saidi, Bedouin Zaffe, North African, Zaar. $140
@ Dance Complex Studio #1, 536 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139 (Sunday 10:30am-4pm)

The student is responsible for their own Lodging, Transportation and Food.
There are many restaurants and hotels in the immediate area. Visit www.arabdanceseminar.com/cambridgehotels.pdf

TEACHERS FOR THIS SEMINAR INCLUDE :

CASSANDRA SHORE: Raqs Sharqi and Egyptian Folklore : www.jawaahir.org

Cassandra is one of America's leading performers and teachers of Egyptian Raqs Sharqi and Middle Eastern folkloric dance. A distinctively musical dancer, you can hear Arabic music better when Cassandra dances to it. Her choreographies are closely tied to musical nuances. Her style is powerful yet understated. The legendary Egyptian dancer Ragia Hassan says, "Because Cassandra has come to Cairo for many years, you can see it in her dance. She is the first American dancer I saw that is very soft, very relaxed [and has the] Egyptian style. She is a very great dancer and teacher." Cassandra has been the lead instructor at Oasis Dance Camp since it was founded 23 years ago, and teaches internationally as well as in the U.S. She founded and directs the acclaimed Jawaahir Dance Company of Minneapolis, which established a seasonal concert series at The Southern Theater in Minneapolis, and has presented 110 formal concerts and 240 community concerts. Jawaahir has hosted 83 guest artists, including distinguished dancers, choreographers, composers, and musicians from the Middle East, and has collaborated and/or performed with 26 regional performing arts groups. Simon Shaheen has invited Cassandra to perform twice in his acclaimed Mahrajan al-Fan in New York City, a testament to her artistry as well as to her careful portrayal of the Arab dance arts. Watching Cassandra perform is an unforgettable experience. Taking class from her is a great opportunity for dancers of all skill and experience levels to delve deeper into the world of Middle Eastern dance.

KARIM NAGI: Arabic Music, Rhythm, Dabkaat, Seminar Organizer : www.karimnagi.com

Karim Nagi is a native Egyptian who has lived in the Boston area for over 20 years. Karim performs primarily Arabic, Turkish and Andalusian hand percussion, including the Egyptian Tabla (goblet drum), Riqq (tambourine) and Segat (brass castanets), plus Arab Folk Dances. Karim is a former faculty member of the New England Conservatory of Music. Karim leads the SHARQ Arabic Music Ensemble performing the classical Arabic instrumental and vocal repertoire. Karim travels the country presenting his education Arabiqa program, bringing Arabic Music, Dance and Culture to school grades 4 up through the university level. Karim developed and currently performs Turbo Tabla a music and dance show that combines traditional Arabic and Turkish music with modern Electronica and Techno. He has authored 3 instructional DVDs and 2 instructional CDs on Arab Rhythms and Drumming. Karim also dances Tahteeb Cane Dance and Dabka Arabic Line Dance and once lead the Zaitoun Dabka Troupe. For 5 years, before becoming a full time touring teacher and performer, he produced the wildly successful 'Arabesque Mondays' series at Club Passim in Harvard Square. His goal is to present music and dance as a single wholistic activity, fully integrated.

AMEL TAFSOUT: North African, Berber, and Bedouin : www.ameltafsout.com

Born in Algeria, AMEL TAFSOUT is an accomplished well respected Master Dancer and choreographer of North African MAGHREB DANCE, a dance anthropologist, a singer, a storyteller and a Language instructor. She has lectured, danced, taught, sung and conducted anthropological research all over the world. She performed in many European countries and the US. She lived in many European countries (France, Germany and the UK); she speaks four languages and has published articles in academic and popular magazines. She is the Director of "The Tafsoutettes", her dance company, formed in 2001. With her company Amel Tafsout aims to perform the dances of the Maghreb and other Arabic countries with skill and sincerity as well as to educate audiences about North African culture, most notably women's traditions and evolutions through dance, story telling but still retaining a sense of wit and sharing the spirit of celebration.

KAY HARDY CAMPBELL: Khaligi, Gulf Dance and Music : www.kayhardycampbell.com

For more than 25 years, Kay has taught Gulf women's folkloric dance across the U.S. to women at dancer-sponsored events as well as at academic institutions including MIT, Agnes Scott College, and Wellesley College. Women of the Gulf perform these dances in groups to celebrate occasions such as weddings, school graduations and national holidays. The women traditionally perform their dances in pairs or in groups. Kay learned these folk arts from the women of Saudi Arabia when she lived there for several years. While Kay doesn't perform these dances in public, she has coached and choreographed group dances for professional performers including Boston's Near East Dance Theatre, Libana and the Jawaahir Dance Company. She has been the featured folkloric instructor at Oasis Dance Camp four times. Kay speaks, reads and writes Arabic, having a BA in Arabic and an MA in Middle Eastern Studies. She also plays the `ud and helps direct the Arabic Music Retreat. Kay's goal with her classes is to share the joyous aspects of Arabian women's traditional culture with women in the West by letting them experience it firsthand through music and dance.

RACHID HALIHAL: Singer, Oudist, Violinist, featured performer for Saturday Concert : www.rachidhalihalmusic.com

As a world-class musician, Rachid Halihal brings to the community the true character and spirit of musics from the classical Egyptian repertoire which is much loved throughout the Middle East; from the Fertile Crescent; from diverse regions of Morocco and North Africa; and also the mezmerizing music of the Arabian Gulf. As a child, growing up in Fez, Morocco, Rachid played the nei and sang, imitating the famous singers of the time. At age fourteen he entered "Dar Aadyil" the Conservatory of Music in Fez. At first he studied Western classical and Andalus music on piano and violin. He soon expanded to include a variety of other instruments in order to better express his native music. In addition to his voice, which is best featured in the Andalus style, his strongest instruments are the oud (similar to a lute without frets) and the violin, which he plays in both the classical manner and upright resting on the knee for Moroccan folkloric music.

MEIVER DE LA CRUZ: Seminar Administrator : www.meiver.com

Meiver, a Middle Eastern Dance performer and instructor in Boston, is a fiery entertainer specializing in Egyptian / Lebanese Cabaret style. With natural grace combined with her authentic feel for Arabic rhythms, sheÕs become one of BostonÕs favorite and most sought after performers. Her strong sense of rhythm fills her audience with excitement, leaving them mesmerized by the elegance, gracefulness and mystery of her movements. Beyond Raqs Sharqi, her repertoire includes double veil, sword balancing, raqs al assaya (cane dance from upper Egypt), Dabka, and the Muwashahaat rhythms of Andalusian origin. Having spent the first 16 years of her life in the Dominican Republic, Meiver grew up dancing to tropical rhythms like Salsa, Merengue and Bachata and carries the warmth of the Caribbean in her heart. She started her professional study of dance 10 years ago, covering a variety of genres which have come to influence her style.

Complete info, registration, videos, schedule and maps at:
http://www.arabdanceseminar.com/

Brought to you by Karim Nagi & Meiver De La Cruz
arabdanceseminar@gmail.com

Help save Pandora Music

2008-09-29T09:40:00.001-07:00

If you enjoy Pandora Music (www.pandora.com) as much I do, then your help is needed to help save internet radio. I recieved the following message from Tim Westergreen, founder of Pandora:

"Hi, it's Tim from Pandora;
Today, thanks to the extraordinary support of many Pandora listeners, we took a giant step forward when the House of Representatives supported Pandora and Internet radio and passed the Webcaster Settlement Act of 2008. Now we need your help so that the Senate will pass it also - and quickly... The finish line is in sight!
After a yearlong negotiation, Pandora, SoundExchange and the RIAA are finally optimistic about reaching an agreement on royalties that would save Pandora and Internet radio. The legislation would give us the extra time we need to finalize the deal.
Please call your Senators Monday morning starting at 9:00 (Eastern) and ask them to support the Webcaster Settlement Act of 2008.
The person who answers the phone in your Senator's office may ask for the bill number - it's H.R. 7084 (if they ask for a Senate bill number, you can assure them that in this unusual case, the Senate is actually voting on the House bill number).

If the phone is busy, please try again until you get through. These calls really do make a difference.
Thanks so much for you ongoing support.
Tim

Summit Fire Benefit Concert for Sulyman

2008-06-30T08:12:00.000-07:00

A Musician of Many Talents: Sulyman El Coyote lost all of his life's work in the Summit Fire. A Benefit concert for Sulyman will be held on Sunday July 6th.

WHEN : Sunday July 6th, 2008
TIME : 6:30 pm (doors open 6:00pm)
WHERE : at the Vets Hall 846 Front Street in Santa Cruz, CA
COST : $15 donation

DETAILS : Featuring world music by Sulyman, Sirocco and Orient¢al with belly dancers Delilah from Seattle and local favorites Sahar, Crystal, Mashuqa, many other amazing performers and a silent auction.

Mother of All Frame Drums

2008-06-27T11:12:00.000-07:00

I need some help from the blog readers out there. I purchased what I am calling "the mother of all frame drums" (MOAFD) a few months ago. (See the picture to the right).

MOAFD started its life as a display unit at the local Guitar Center. Its dimensions are: 36" wide x 6" deep. The sound is OK with the current head (a plastic, single ply) but the graphic leaves a lot to be desired. Here's where I need your help...

I'd like to purchase and put a new head on it, but I am unsure which head material to select. First of all there isn't a lot of selection for a 36" orchestral size bass drum, but I do have some choices. I've never played bass drum nor drum kit before, so I don't have an appreciation for the subtleties of the different drum head choices. I am hoping that one of you has the experience to guide me in making my selection for a new drum head:

Ambassador
Fiberskyn
Renaissance
Other??

I want to play this drum with my hands, like a frame drum. So the question is which of these head material choices will provide the best sound, with the most overtones? I plan to tighten it pretty tight. I am thinking that timpani head would be good, but they don't make 'em this large.

Yemeni Music Concert in San Francisco

2008-06-26T10:01:00.000-07:00

Ahamed Alrodini & Friends

Oud player, Singer, percussionist (dumbek and frame drum), Alrodini was born in Bakat Al Hoddeidah on the Red Sea coast of Yemen. Learning music informally from the time he was a small boy, Alrodini once made himself an oud from found objects including parts of a gas tank from an abandoned truck. He first came to the United States in 1988 on a tour with Fouad Al Kibsi and Haifa Omar, prominent Yemeni musicians. He started performing on Yemeni Radio & TV as a teenager in Sanaa. Alrodini is one of only a few Brooklyn, NY based artists who come from the South/Red Sea area and his expertise in that region's polyrhthmic percussion music is a rarity. He's also steeped in the many regional styles, including the more classical Sanaani poetry songs.

WHEN: Saturday June 28th
TIME: 7pm
COST: Tickets are $40

DETAILS:
Call (646) 594-6026
email: alrodini@gmail.com

Union Hall
240 Golden Gate Ave.
San Francisco 94102
415 885-0087

* see link to directions below

http://sanfrancisco.citysearch.com/profile/map/865654/san_francisco_ca/service_employees_international_union_local_87_san_francisco_janitors_union_.html

Arabic music at the Cayuga Vault

2008-06-25T21:25:00.000-07:00

Don't miss this wonderful weekend of Arabic music at the Cayuga Vault in Santa Cruz July 12 & 13:

Intensive Weekend Seminar in Arabic Music with composer Elias Lammam of Beirut, Lebanon
When: Sat & Sun July 12th - 13th
Date: 1:00pm - 5:30pm each day
A rare opportunity for musicians trained in western, classical, jazz, or other musical traditions to obtain a comprehensive introduction to Arabic music and learn several classic songs in just two days, with Elias Lammam, one of the most knowledgeable and talented Arabic musicians in the U.S.

Presented by Mediterraneo Productions To register please call 831-227-9514

Early registration deadline for the music seminar is June 30.
Take one or more classes for $40 each, or take the entire workshop plus concert ticket for $175 by 6/30 (after 6/30: $50 per class or $200 for entire workshop plus concert ticket)
Four 2-hour classes:
Saturday: Maqams/Arabic Music Theory and Arabic Rhythms
Sunday: Vocals (co-taught by Georges Lammam) and Ensemble class
For details or to download printable registration form please see:
http://members.cruzio.com/~zsuzsii/new_events.html

And an Evening Concert by:

The Georges Lammam Ensemble featuring Elias Lammam
Saturday July 12th - 8pm
tix $18/$22 adv. tix available at Gateways Books & Gifts (831) 429-9600

Mediterraneo Productions presents an evening of exquisite Arabic music with Elias Lammam, master of microtonal accordion, and his brothers: violin virtuoso Georges Lammam, and Antoine Lammam, master of Arabic percussion (tabla, riq), presenting classical and popular Arabic music as well as original compositions.

At the Cayuga Vault 1100 Soquel Ave Santa Cruz, CA 95062 www.cayugavault.com
"Supporting Original Music, Emerging Art, and Diverse Culture"

Vdeo Podcast: Stretching exercises

2008-06-17T08:04:00.000-07:00

David Kuckherman posted some exercises for avoidng tendonitis and carpel tunnel strain. These exercises stretcht the tendons and muscles in your hands and arms.

Here's David's website: http://www.framedrums.net

Here's the video:

A Weekend of Arabic Music with Elias Lammam

2008-06-16T07:58:00.000-07:00

Mediterraneo Productions proudly presents:

A Weekend of Arabic Music with Elias Lammam
July 12-13, 2008 at the Cayuga Vault
1100 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA
www.cayugavault.com

Master of microtonal accordion, renowned vocalist and composer from Beirut, Lebanon, Elias Lammam has been a featured musician on worldwide concert tours with famed Iraqi singer KASEM AL SAHER, including concerts at Carnegie Hall in New York, and toured with other notable singers Rageb Alame, George Wasouf, Ghassan Saliba, Joseph Noumnom. He has also toured with superstar Oriental dancer AMANI of Lebanon and dancer SAMARA, and has composed for Egyptian dancer DINA and many others. He is currently a core member of the Georges Lammam Ensemble, introducing Americans to the remarkable Oriental Accordion. He plays annually to standing ovations at the Cotati Accordion Festival in Cotati, CA. He currently instructs two music ensemble classes in northern California and offers private instruction in accordion, voice, percussion, oud, and other instruments. Elias makes a rare stop in Santa Cruz, CA to offer an intensive 2-day seminar in Arabic music, and he and his virtuoso brothers, Georges and Antoine, as the Georges Lammam Ensemble, will play an evening concert featuring classical and popular Arabic music, original works, and favorite tunes for open floor dancing.

Two-day Intensive Music Seminar: Introduction to Arabic Music
July 12 & 13, 1:00 pm - 5:30pm each day (Sat & Sun)
Four classes, 2 hours each:
Maqams, Rhythms, Vocal Techniques, and Ensemble Class
An intensive introduction to Arabic music for instrumentalists and vocalists trained in Western classical, jazz, or other musical traditions, and beginning- to intermediate-level students of Arabic music.

Dancers without formal musical backgrounds, but with experience on zils or percussion may wish to try out the rhythms class, and if you enjoy singing, the vocals class. You may also be interested in the Maqams class, which will cover Arabic music theory (musical modes & scales, cultural & historic background). If you don't have/can't play a melodic instrument you may enroll & just listen or sing the notes. Georges Lammam will assist in teaching the vocals class.

Registration:
Take one or more classes for $40 each (by June 30) or $50 each (after June 30).
Or register for entire weekend: $175 for all 4 classes plus 1 concert ticket (by June 30).
After June 30: $200 for entire weekend.

Further details and registration form available at:
http://members.cruzio.com/~zsuzsii/new_events.html

AND

Evening Concert
WHEN: Saturday, July 12, 8:00pm
The Georges Lammam Ensemble, featuring Elias Lammam
Classical & popular Arabic music and original works by the renowned Lammam brothers.
$18 Adv/$22 at the door
Advance tickets available at Gateways Books & Gifts
1126 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz www.gatewaysbooks.com
Order by phone at: 831-429-9600

Both events will be held at the Cayuga Vault in Santa Cruz

For more information about these events and other upcoming Arabic music & dance events in the San Francisco Bay Area, please see:
http://members.cruzio.com/~zsuzsii/new_events.html

For lodging and other Santa Cruz visitor info: www.santacruzca.org

World of Drumming II, Grass Valley CA

2008-06-05T08:17:00.000-07:00

WORLD OF DRUMMING II is a Percussion Extravaganza featuring Drumming from Around the World. This fundraising event strives to help St. Joseph's Cultural Center in Grass Valley raise additional funds to pay for yearly insurance costs.

WHEN: Saturday, June 21, 2008 7:00 PM
WHERE: St. Joseph’s Cultural Center, 410 South Church Street, Grass Valley
WHO: Grass Valley Taiko, the Earth Rhythms Dancers and Drummers, Capoeira Em Movimento Grass Valley, Joe Fajen and friends, the Feather River Singers, the Blue Lotus Percussion Ensemble, Grupo Omo Ache, Samba Louco with Jeff Wax, and other special guests. Rarely are so many talented percussionists assembled in one venue.
ADMISSION: $20.00 in advance and $25.00 at the door Advance Ticket Purchase is Highly Recommended.

Tickets available at the BriarPatch Co-op in Grass Valley, After the Gold Rush Records in Nevada City and at the office of St. Joseph's Cultural Center

Information: Joseph Guida at St. Joseph's Cultural Center 530-272-4725
www.saintjosephsculturalcenter.org
Email: stjcc@nccn.net

A WORLD OF DRUMMING II

Join us as we honor the traditions of the drum and celebrate its power to unify humanity.
Man has been beating on drums from as far back as history records. Among numerous other artifacts found through the years, hollowed out logs were excavated that were believed to be communication devices in primitive times. Drums would later take a more prominent role in tribal ceremonial gatherings where they accompanied ritual dancing and celebration

The concept of drums is as old as mankind. A drum is called a membranophone, or an instrument that creates sound by striking a stretched membrane with some type of object, usually a rounded stick. Drums consist of a hollowed-out piece (called the body), a membrane stretched over the end of the drum, and tuning keys or pegs which tighten or loosen the membrane to achieve different tones. While most may think that the body of the drum produces the sound, it is in fact actually the membrane and its vibration that creates the sound when struck.
Drums first appeared as far back as 6000 BC. Mesopotamian excavations unearthed small cylindrical drums dated 3000 BC. Several wall markings found in caves in Peru show drums used in various aspects of societal life. The American Indians used gourd and wooden constructed drums for their rituals and ceremonies. Drums have always been used for more than merely creating music. In Africa, where music is simply an interpretation of everyday life in sound, drums were used as speech. Simply a pattern of beats played in a certain way could communicate vast amounts of information. Today, drums can be made of everything from plastic to basic metal, and some even exist in iron, bronze and steel.
The Performers

Grass Valley Taiko was founded in 2000 from modest beginnings as a basic Taiko workshop conducted in Grass Valley. Taiko, a Japanese style of drumming has a long and rich history, It was used to call the Gods to alter existing conditions such as warding off pestilence, bringing rain, blessing a harvest or inviting the ancestors to join in celebration of the family. Villages used the drums to communicate; soldiers were sent to war and fisherman called in from the sea. In 2004 founder Mitzi Garnett took lead of the group's direction and today the group has over 50 members ranging in ages from 7 – 70 and makes Taiko Dojo home in historic Saint Joseph's Cultural Center in Grass Valley. Grass Valley Taiko conducts classes 4-6 times per week and actively participates in many community and educational events, among these events are the Nevada County Fair, school assemblies, parades, wedding receptions, picnics, grand openings, and dedications. Mitzi Garnett combines her creative interpretations of traditional pieces with those created by Grass Valley Taiko to present a cornucopia of styles and rhythms which intrigues and delights audiences of all ages. Visit the dojo online at
www.grassvalleytaiko.com

Joe Fajen became a tabla convert and student of North Indian classical tabla playing in 1989 while living in Davis. Right away he had the happy fortune of taking tabla classes with Zakir Hussain in Berkeley, which continued for a number of years. Joe also studied tabla with Swapan Chaudhuri, Arshad Sayed, and Ty Burhoe. Joe plays tabla for classical Indian instrumentalists whenever he can. He also loves to accompany kirtan and kathak dance. He plays with Ross Kent, Roses, Roses, Jaya Lakshmi, Simrit Kaur & Jai Dev Singh, Angelika and others. He often accompanies and collaborates with kathak dancer Anya Devi and cellist Arthur Gould. He plays trombone in Sabroso, a local Latin jazz band, and studies trombone and music theory with Ludi Hinrichs in Nevada City. Joe teaches drum workshops from time to time and teaches privately. For this night he will be performing with Andrew Gold on cello and Linton Hall on Bansuri flute

Capoeira Raca Em Movimento: Capoeira is a Brazilian cultural art form encompassing elements of martial arts, dance, music, and acrobatics. It was developed by African slaves in Brazil as a fighting technique disguised as a dance. Movement is accompanied by music played on traditional instruments and songs that tell of the history of this ritual combat. Although Capoeira is considered a martial art, it is practiced and "played" with little or no contact. Kicks, strikes, and sweeps are displayed and defended against within a "game" between two players who improvise their movements to the music and song provided by on looking capoeiristas (players) awaiting their turn to play. Professor Joao Marcio Pires comes to us from Sao Paulo, Brazil where he studied Capoeira and graduated with his Professor's cordao (belt) under Mestre Enir at the Capoeira Raca Em Movimento school in the city of Braganca Paulista. In October of 2005 Professor Joao Marcio began teaching classes in Grasss Valley establishing our local Capoeira Raca Em Movimento group. Learning this dynamic art form involves the integration of strength, flexibility, agility, endurance, discipline, rhythm, and more. Classes are currently taught at the Sierra Dance Institute in Grass Valley on Tuesdays at 7:00pm, Thursdays at 7:45pm, and Saturday's at 11:00am and is open to all levels and ages. For more information call (530) 277-9743 or email
joaomarciocapoeira@hotmail.com.
Earth Rhythm Dancers and Drummers are based in Nevada City, CA, is a group of performers that presents dances, drum rhythms and songs from the Congo, West Africa, the Caribbean, Brazil, and North America. Most of the group's performing repertoire are traditional dance and drum pieces from the cultures that some members have apprenticed with, and some pieces are a collective choreography creation by the members of this troupe. Earth Rhythms performances are high energy, energetic presentations that depict the power and love of the life force in the members of the collective and in the cultures from which the dance pieces derive their roots.
Feather River Singers is a Women’s Drum with exciting energy, a soothing beat and original style in Cherokee and English. They are dedicated to preserving their native language through songs. Their debut CD “Daughters of the Earth” features all original materials by group members breaks into new territory in Native music. Prentice Robinson, Cherokee linguist from Tulsa, Oklahoma acted as language consultant for this project. Inspired by The Mankillers, Walela and Ulali, these women bring melody and a Cherokee touch to their songs. Their first recording efforts received national recognition from the 8th Annual Native American Music Awards when their album was nominated for Debut Artist/Group of the Year. The album title, “Daughters of the Earth”, reflects the theme of their CD. The sound studio was in a natural outdoor setting; microphones were placed in trees so bird sounds became part of the recording. Larry Badger and Curt Burrows of Joyful Sound recorded the album on location. Badger later mixed and mastered the final CD in Joyful Sound’s Yuba City studio. The album insert was designed by the singers, and former member LE Honyecutt is credited with the original artwork. The insert depicts the Great Smokey Mountains of the Cherokee homeland, with the seven birds representing the seven Cherokee clans.
www.featherriversingers.com
"We are women, woman singers.We understand that the songs are prayers.And to consent to sing is to serve."-Coyote Woman 2007-Feather River Singers are Jesse Harris, Choctaw, Gwen Cochran, Cherokee/Comanche, Anna Eyre, Cherokee/Choctaw, LE Honeycutt, Cherokee/Choctaw/Blackfoot and Barbara Warren, Cherokee; Front row: Kathleen Shain, Cherokee/Choctaw, Seth Honeycutt, Cherokee/Choctaw/Blackfoot and Pam Ames, Cherokee

Blue Lotus Percussion Ensemble performs the music of Morocco and Middle East on Mizwiz (reed flute), Karakeb (metal clackers), bender (frame drum with snares), and doumbec (clay hand drum).

Grupo Omo Ache performs rhythms and chants or praise songs to the Orishas. The Orishas are Yoruban deities that represent the divine force of nature, the universe and all aspects of human life. The hour glass shaped drums known as bata, were originally brought to Cuba from Nigeria by Yoruban slaves. The bta are said to “speak” the ritual language of the Orishas. Gary Greenberg is the Director.

Samba Louco Percussion group Samba Louco brings together Placer and Nevada County lovers of Brazilian rhythms. Beginning with Nevada City's annual Joe Cain and Mardi Gras procession entries, led by Sarah Keller and Kit Bailey, the group has played its danceable grooves for parades, festivals and dance classes from North San Juan all the way to Auburn. Samba Louco ("crazy samba") got its name and a seriously fun upgrade when Jeff Wax of Meadow Vista brought his drumming friends and sparkling arrangements to Deanna Figueira's dance classes at St. Joseph's in 2007

A World of Drumming II is a benefit for St. Joseph's Cultural Center insurance costs.
Last year’s benefit for insurance costs featured Joanna Newsom and Aaron Ross. Last year’s benefit was a huge success.

A World of Drumming I took place in November, 2006 at the Center for the Arts as a benefit for Tibet Tech, which funded a computer lab in a Tibetan Nunnery in southern India. It was a sold out success.

Part II David Kuckhermann with N Scott Robinson

2008-05-20T07:21:00.000-07:00

Here's the second video with N. Scott Robinson. This ia nice session where N. Scott plays on the frame drum.

David Kuckhermann NAFDA with N Scott Robinson

2008-05-19T07:08:00.000-07:00

Here's a great video of N. Scott Robinson on Kanjira

Christopher Hardy Cooperman Drum

2008-05-16T07:45:00.000-07:00

Check out this beauty, designed for Christopher Hardy by Cooperman Drums. Christopher describes it as a cross between a Bendir and a Riq. WOW - I want one..
You won't find it on the Cooperman website, looks like you'll need to call and custom order it.

The Art of Ghatam and Konnakol by Sri T. H. Subash Chandran

2008-05-15T07:09:00.000-07:00

This 2 DVD set is now avialable for sale on OMRadio.com

T. H Subash Chandran is one of the leading artists of Carnatic percussion and is recognized as the "King of Konnakol". On this first of its kind DVD, Sri Subash Chandran shares his knowledge on the ghatam, the clay pot of South Indian percussion, and konnakol, the art of vocal percussion.
The ghatam lessons are approached from the beginning with introduction to strokes, playing patterns, compositions, korvai, mora, and varied talams. The konnakol lesson starts from basic vocalization patterns, building to compositions, and korvais. Demonstrating the guru student relationship, Sri Subash Chandran works through the vocalizations carefully and then performs them at faster speeds. The material provides a foundation for long term drumming of many traditions. The vocalizations are printed right on the screen for study and accompanyment.
Additionally there are fantastic solos and an interview with Sri Subash Chandran on his life in music and thoughts for learning.

http://www.omradio.com/artghatamkonnakol.php

Riqq Video by Nader Marcos

2008-05-14T07:44:00.000-07:00

Here's some nice Riqq work by Nader Marcos:

American Frame Drum Gathering this weekend!

2008-05-13T14:05:00.000-07:00

American Frame Drum Gathering
When: May 16-18, 2008
Where: Asheville, NC USA
More Info: http://www.guerguerian.com/AFDG2008.pdf
Hosted by River Guerguerian & the FrameDrummer Group

Mission Statement:
An International Event that will feature the incredibly diverse family of the Frame Drum; designed to support and promote its aesthetic value. Workshops and performances will feature traditional and contemporary styles from the Middle East, Europe, Central Asia, South & North America, and India.

The drums include Tar, Kanjira, Tamburello, Ghaval, Riq Tambourine, Pandeiro, Bodhran, etc…

Teachers, professionals, and hobbyists, will come together to share the technical, cultural, and medicinal aspects of this ancient drum.

Featuring:

David Kuckhermann – Germany -
http://www.framedrums.de/
Abbos Kosimov - Uzbekistan -
http://www.abboskosimov.com/
Patrick Graham – Montreal, Canada - http://www.patrickgrahampercussion.com
Rafael Pereira – Atlanta, USA -
http://www.rafaelpereira.com
Jon Singer – New York City, USA - myspace.com/jonathansingermusic
River Guerguerian – Asheville, NC USA - http://www.ShareTheDrum.com
Chris Sampson – Houston, USA - http://www.omradio.com/ - Media Sponsor

Cooperman Drums will be demonstrating and selling
drums
http://www.cooperman.com/handdrums/handdrums.htm

Fees:
$50 – Registration
$100 - $200 sliding scale Teacher Fee
-no one will be refused on the basis of money
For Registration and more info (including lodging):
contact River – river@guerguerian.com tel. –
(828)-301-6605

SCHEDULE: (subject to change)

May 16:
Bobo Gallery, 22 Lexington Ave., Asheville, NC 28801
http://www.bobogallery.com
4:00 pm-6:00 pm - Meet and Greet/Playing,
Registration
6:00 pm-7:00pm – Discussion –
“Historical and Medicinal aspects of the drum”
7:00 pm-8:00 pm – Clinic – Chris Sampson; “Promoting
your music”

May 17:
Workshops - Namaste Yoga Center, 57 Broadway,
Asheville, NC 28801
http://www.namasteasheville.com
tel. 828-253-6985
9:30 am – Registration
9:45 am-10:45 am – “My Favorite Warm-ups” Group
warm-up
with Tips featuring all the teachers
10:45 am– 12:00 pm - Workshop – Jon Singer;
“Kanjira and it’s applications to other Frame Drums”
including a crash
course on Carnatic music
(Jon will also bring his Mrudangam)
12:00 pm-1:00 pm – Workshop – David, River, and
others;
“Middle Eastern Percussion Styles and Demonstrations”
with Tar, Riq,
(and even a little Doumbek)
1:00 pm-2:00 pm – Lunch and group knowledge exchange
2:00-3:30 – “Uzebkistan Doira”
3:30pm-5:00pm – Workshop - Rafael Pereira;
“Pandeiro Styles and Applications”
5:00 pm-6:30pm - Patrick Graham;
“Irish Bodhran Applications and More”
6:30 pm – 9:00 pm - free time
9:00 pm - 12:00 am: Performance Concert @ Bobo
Gallery-$8 cover;
all teachers and other performers, including
Lotus Women’s Frame Drummers Group

May 18
Workshops - Namaste Yoga Center
11:00 am-12:30 pm – Workshop - David Kuckhermann;
“Persian hand drumming techniques and applications”
12:30 pm-1:30 pm – Lunch and group knowledge sharing
1:30 pm-2:30 pm – Workshop – River Guerguerian;
“Composing, Improvising, and Studio applications
of the modern Frame Drum”
2:30 pm-4:00 pm Workshop - David & River;
“Multiple Frame Drum set-ups”
*all events are in downtown Asheville and are within walking distance*
*more details to be announced as they progress*
http://www.guerguerian.com/AFDG2008.pdf
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/framedrummer/

Faisel Zeden Riqq Videos

2008-05-13T07:41:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of Riqq solos by Faisel Zeden:

Ensemble Zarbang Video 4

2008-05-12T08:38:00.000-07:00

Ensemble Zarbang starts their US tour this week. Here a video of their performance. Tour details: http://zarbang.com/pages/events.html

Ensemble Zarbang Video 3

2008-05-11T08:37:00.000-07:00

Ensemble Zarbang starts their US tour this week. Here a video of their performance.
Tour details: http://zarbang.com/pages/events.html

Ensemble Zarbang Video 2

2008-05-09T08:34:00.000-07:00

Ensemble Zarbang starts their US tour this week. Here a video of their performance. Tour details: http://zarbang.com/pages/events.html

I love the Udu in this video:

Ensemble Zarbang Video 1

2008-05-08T08:31:00.000-07:00

Ensemble Zarbang starts their US tour this week. Here a video of their performance.
Tour details: http://zarbang.com/pages/events.html

Karim Nagi and Turbo Tabla in Santa Cruz, CA

2008-05-08T07:58:00.000-07:00

Karim Nagi and TURBO TABLA Dance Party & Show Egyptian Percussionist, Folk Dancer, International Recording Artist, and DJ. Live Drumming and Dancing by Karim,with Guest Dancers Sahar, Janelle, Adriana and Rebekahand DJ TURBO TABLA spinning Arabic Middle Eastern, Indian House/Electronica, and traditionalDabke and Belly Dance tunes for social dancing

When: Saturday, May 17th, 8PM
Where: The Cayuga Vault, Santa Cruz, CA

Workshops

When: Sunday May 18th @ 1pm - 6pm
Where: at DanceSynergy Studio in Aptos

1. Musicality For Dancers:
Despite any mastery of technique and bodily dexterity, true dance expression requires musicality. The best dancers are those who emulate the music into their own movement. Karim will demystify Arab music for the dancer. Several recurring themes in Arab music will be identified (using recorded examples) and explained in emotive, non musical terms. The class will cover Taksim, Melodic Themes, Vocal vs Instrumental Songs, Rhythms & Rhythmic Changes, Melodic Modulation, Song Structure, Orchestration and Instrumentation. Karim will guide the students through several songs and lead them in dancing to each of these themes. This is a movement class that will help the dancer become the physical personification of the music.

2. Essential Tahteeb & Assaya (Folkloric Dances of Egypt)
Dancing with sticks and canes is a quintessential expression in Egyptian village dance. Most prevelent in Southern Egypt among the "Saidi", Tahteeb (for men) and Raqs Assaya (women) is a bold yet gracefull dance with the cane prop. A unisex style is taught that contains both the male Tahteeb bravado and mock combat, along with the Assaya flirtation and spunk. Karim teaches with the strait cane (any dowel between 3' and 4') and covers all the basic spins, flips and strikes. He stresses ambidexterous technique and utilizes both hands for the entire lesson. Double Cane is also taught, culminating in a short standard "friendly battle" choreography.

Workshop Registration:
May 1 or later: $50 each or $95 for both
To register, send check or money order with appropriate payment and the information below to:
Mediterraneo Productions PO Box 1741 Capitola, CA 95010
1. Your name, phone number and email address
2. Specify which workshop(s) you wish to attend
3. Number of show tickets you would like, if any ($15 each)
Pre-registration is highly encouraged, as workshops may fill up prior to the workshop date!
To confirm space availability, please call or email 7 days prior to the event date:
(831)227-9514 zsuzsii@cruzio.com

More details: http://members.cruzio.com/~zsuzsii/new_events.html

Note: Karim has a whole set of upcoming events in California in the coming months. Check out his calendar online: http://www.karimnagi.com/calendar/

Raquy & The Cavemen Playing in Santa Cruz, CA

2008-05-07T12:52:00.000-07:00

Raquy & The Cavemen are playing in Santa Cruz this weekend. If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area, it's a chance to see one of the premier Middle Eastern Music groups, and catch a drumming workshop.

Who: Raquy & The Cavemen
When: Friday, May 9th 8 p.m.
Where: The Cayuga Vault, 1100 Soquel Ave. Santa Cruz, near Gateways
Books and The Crepe Place (a fun area to hand out)
Cost: $10
Tickets: at Rhythm Fusion in downtown Santa Cruz (423-2048) , or at
the door. Limited seating, so consider advance tickets. Plus...
you'll get to spend time at Rhythm Fusion... well worth the time by
itself!

Workshop

Middle Eastern Drumming Workshop at Rhythm Fusion on Saturday, May 10 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Cost: $25

Support Marla Leigh's Rhythms in Peace DVD Fundraising Project

2008-05-07T06:52:00.000-07:00

Marla Leigh is producing a Rhythms in Peace project, which is a landmark CD and DVD sacred music series that brings together Grammy-winning musicians and other world class artists with tribal musicians from across the globe. Some proceeds from this project will help aid women's sacred drumming groups in developing countries (Morocco and Egypt).

What: A Fundraising Event
When: Saturday, May 17, 8 PM
Where: Bonsorte Studio, 2410 Lincoln Blvd, Venice CA .
Cost: $20 presale/$25 door
Details: Come DANCE the night away for a good cause, with:
*Marla's world music ensemble, Rhythmjuju*(opening meditation), Saul David Raye*(musical guests), Suzanne Teng & Suzanne Sterling*(dance) Jacqui Lalita, & Debbie Striessinger*organic chocolate & wine, silent auction & more....

About the project:

Rhythms in Peace is a revolutionary, one-of-a kind album of original and traditional healing trance music.

Confirmed artists:
* Glen Velez, 3 time Grammy-Winning Percussionist (USA)
* Houryarites, Women's drumming/vocal group, (MOROCCO)
* Zar women's trance-healing drumming group (EGYPT)
* Brahim Fribgane, Oudist, Music coordinator of Moroccan part of project (MOROCCO).
* Jef Stott, Six Degrees Artist, Producer (USA)
* Greg Hunter, World renowned Programmer (UK)
* Lori Cotler, Vocalist, (USA)
* Randy Gloss, Percussionist, (USA)
* Raquy Danziger, Percussionist, (USA/ISRAEL).
* David Kuckerman, Percussionist, (USA/GERMANY)
* Evan Fraser, Kalimbist, JawHarpist, (USA)
* TBird- Luv, Flautist, (USA)
*more artists tba

DOCUMENTARY FILM:
There will also be an educational, documentary DVD created about the music traditions of Morocco.

VISION BEHIND RHYTHMS IN PEACE:
Music is a sacred art as it serves as one of the oldest forms of healing in the world. Music can be a point of reconnection to ourselves, our families and our global community.

How wide a web can music weave? Accomplished musician-composer Marla Leigh intends to find out through creating a sacred music experience entitled Rhythms in Peace.

From gypsy musicians to Grammy winning artists, Rhythms in Peace seeks to bridge different cultures through music. World music artists from many countries will collaborate on this rich and inspiring project and Marla, with her Rhythms in Peace music and video team, will travel around the globe to record with the various musicians listed above.

TARGET SCHEDULE:

Phase One:
August - September 2008 - Travel to Marrakech and Essouria Morocco, to record with the Houryarites, as well as with various Berber and Gnawa musicians.

Phase Two:
January - February 2009 - Travel to Egypt and Israel to record with the Zar Women's drumming troupe and Bedouin musicians.

Phase Three:
May 2009 - Rhythms in Peace CD and DVD release date and tour starts; CD and DVD to be distributed internationally.

Video: Blogs in Plain English

2008-05-06T15:29:00.000-07:00

Are you curious about what blogging is all about?

I found the perfect explanation of how blogging works, if you're curious.

This short video explains it all, in the simplest terms I've found yet. (the video is entertaining by itself...)

http://www.commoncraft.com/blogs

Intermediate / Advanced Doumbek Workshop, May 25, 2008

2008-05-05T07:34:00.000-07:00

Middle Eastern master percussionist, Faisal Zedan, will be conducting an intermediate to advanced-level workshop to share his graceful playing style and expertise in the doumbek. This will be an incredible opportunity for you to hone your existing doumbek playing skills.

When: Sunday, May 25, 2008
Time: 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Where: Newman Hall - Holy Spirit Parish
2700 Dwight Way at College Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94704
Cost: $50

Class Size: 10 drummers, max.
Skill Level: As this will be a multi-level workshop appropriate for intermediate to advanced drummers, participants should be proficient with basic techniques as these will not be covered in the workshop.

Topics that will be included in the workshop:
• Refinement of techniques to optimize your strengths.
• Exploring the full potential of your hands - posture, flexibility, relaxation.
• Merging and transition of rhythms in different time signatures.
• Hand and finger rolls.
• Exercises to develop each skill.

Please bring your drum, recorder, and notepad.

For more information, email Faisal: derbakki@yahoo.com
To register, email: stfamous-faisal@yahoo.com.

Faisal's website http://www.faisalzedan.com/

Demonstrating his graceful style
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWcoCo7P3Vo

Showing three ways of playing Qarshi
www.youtube.com/watch?v=d37yoBGHY7g

Middle Eastern Treasures Concert, April 20, 2008

2008-04-19T14:39:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, Sunday, April 20th in Oakland there will be an afternoon of Music, Drums and Dance presented by master percussionist Mary Ellen Donald.

Special Note: For the first time in its long history, this event is not a potluck.
Features:

Nazir Latouf, Syrian born: oud and vocals
Mary Ellen Donald: doumbec, cymbals, zarb, tambourine and frame drum
Belly Dance by Brynn Mercedes
Belly Dance by Michelle Joyce
Silk Road Caravan: Afghani and Anatolian music Directed by Kevin Cloud
VARIETY PACK! chorus directed by Lauren Carley ~ Three Percussion Ensembles performing Mary Ellen's originals
Audience Dancing

WHEN: Sunday, April 20th, 2008
TIME: 2:00 to 5:00pm
LOCATION: Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., near Broadway, Oakland, 94609 (parking lots available for early arrivers) for directions visit www.humanisthall.net
COST: $16.00. . . includes a variety of beverages and light snacks
Children under 12: $8.00 ~ No sales in advance

For details call Mary Ellen at (510)654-DRUM (3786)
Click here for flyer: http://www.maryellendonald.com/pdf%20files/MidEastTreasuresApril20-08.pdf

Drum Classes for beginning Doumbec, Tar & Riq

2008-04-18T08:06:00.000-07:00

If you live in the San Francisco Bay area and you are interested in beginning Doumbec, Tar & Riq classes, I highly recommend these classes with Mike Fair AKA Faraz. I first met Mike at a local drum circle several years ago and was impressed with his vast knowledge of middle eastern rhythms. When he offered classes, I immediately signed up. I've learned a lot of great technique for the Riq from Mike over the years.

Mike is the drummer for Meridian Major.

Come enjoy the fun & easy "sing-song" style to playing drums with Faraz.
Costs: $15 - $20 per session, early reservations rewarded with lowest fee.

In San Jose on April 30 @ 7:15PM At Khajulahs' Studio
In Sunnyvale on April 27 @1:30PM At Lunatic Fringe Studio

WHERE: Khajulah’s Home Studio
609 Minor Avenue
San Jose, CA 95125
(Between Downtown SJ and Willow Glen, near 280, Bird Exit. Easy access via public trannsportation: light rail and bus route 64)
To secure your space, please contact Patrice/Khajulah: patrice-khajulah AT excite DOT com408-279-8524
www.khajulah.com

For more information, please contact Mike/Faraz: msfair AT comcast DOT net
650-369-2368
www.meridianmajor.com

Old blog postings:
http://riqq.blogspot.com/2006/03/my-drum-teacher-mike-fair-aka-faraz.html
http://riqq.blogspot.com/2007/10/drum-lessons-with-mike-fair.html

N.Scott Robinson appearing at the International Native American Flute Association Convention

2008-04-15T17:27:00.000-07:00

For those who haven't heard the news, N. Scott Robinson will be the in-house world percussionist for the 2008 INAFA convention. Scott will be appearing on stage with a variety of Native American Flute players. The performances which will be held each evening of the convention. Scott is no newcomer to the Native American Flute, as he has appeared on several recordings, most notably with Mark Holland and Autumns Child.

When: July 9-13, 2008

Where: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Details: http://www.inafa.org/2008convention.htm

Marla Leigh Frame Drum Workshop in San Francisco

2008-04-14T08:03:00.000-07:00

THE ART OF FRAME DRUMMING & IMPROVISING WORKSHOP

Marla Leigh is presenting a frame drum workshop in San Francisco in two weekends from now..

She will cover many things, such as:

Frame Drum playing styles (lap, tar, free hand)
Hand drum notation
Composing for hand drums
Traditional Middle Eastern/Indian/African Rhythms
Improvising in all meters (based off of North/South Indian rhythmic theories)
Solkattu exercises
and much more.

Details

DATE: April 27, 2008, from 2-5pm
Workshop is geared for both beginning and well-seasoned players.
All info and registration can be found at the link below.
Drums are provided and sold at discounted rates.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON WORKSHOP:
http://www.marlaleigh.com/SFdrum.htm

So what do you think about the new Blog Header?

2008-04-11T13:29:00.001-07:00

I took a creative moment this afternoon to create a new header for the blog. What do you think? Should I keep it?

2008 LP catalog now available

2008-04-07T07:09:00.000-07:00

I noticed that LP has released their 2008 catalog. You can download your copy here: http://www.lpmusic.com/Product_Showcase/pdf_catalogs2.html

New for 2008:

They have a new angled Cajon out this year. Look's very cool. (I know that this isn't a frame drum, but I thought that my regular readers would appreciate the style of this new percussion instrument...))

Also new this year is a new rainstick, which LP is marketing as the "longest rainshower on the market". Pretty cool looking design

NAFDA Frame Drum Fest starts tomorrow

2008-03-27T08:32:00.000-07:00

This weekend is the big event for the North American Frame Drum Association. The first annual Frame Drum fest is taking place in Baltimore, MD. It's sold out, and I am sure that it will be an awesome event. They have a line up of amazing and talented musicians presenting and performing.

If you go, I'd love to hear about your experience. I'd even be happy to post your reviews of the event on the blog.

Tobias Roberson has a new Finger Cymbal DVD

2008-03-21T11:42:00.000-07:00

Tobias Roberson, has a new DVD out covering finger cymbal or zills. I haven't seen it, but this could be an interesting DVD. Tobias is a bay area musician, and teacher. If you live in the bay area be sure to check out his performances with various belly dancing troups and other traveling artists.

Frame Drum Stands from Schlagwerk

2008-03-18T21:32:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for way to secure your frame drums to a stand so that you can play with both hands or in a kit format?

The figure above is the RTH 10 Cross-Frame Holder from Schlagwerk instruments. Useful for securing a frame drum with a cross brace (e.g. Bodhran)

The figure above is the RTH 20 Frame Drum Holder from Schlagwerk.

For more info: http://www.schlagwerk.com

Join 8,000 Drums on March 21, 2008

2008-03-17T12:58:00.000-07:00

I encourage you to be a part of this worldwide drumming event. To help spread peace and heal mother earth.

"According to a Sacred Prophecy revealed at the Otomi Ceremonial Center by the Otomi Elder Sages as a Vision of our Venerable Ancestors, the day when the sounds of 8,000 Sacred Drums join together will be the beginning of the healing of Mother Earth"

WHEN: March 21, 2008

TIME: 10 AM - 12 PM (CST) / 8 AM - 10 AM (PST)

WHAT: Play your drums prayfully. Send your prayers for understanding, tolerance, healing and happiness to those around you.

For more information: http://www.indigenousuniversity.org/sacred_drums.htm

Jas's Middle Eastern Rhythms

2008-03-14T07:29:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for one of the most definite, online resources for Middle Eastern Drumming Rhythms, then the best place that I have found is Jas's Middle Eastern Rhythms page.

Jas lists a few hundred rhythms in notation form along with a MIDI file (very useful if you can't quite get the rhythm).

Also, there is a FAQ page on the site with ton's of great information. It's in a variety of languages.

Finally, one of the really cool gems is the online Rhythm generator, which will produce and play a custom Rhythm for you. You can also have it generate a MIDI file for you to store and play back offline or with your synthesizer: http://www.khafif.com/rhy/rhygen.html

Wanna promote your event? Check out upcoming.com

2008-03-13T16:11:00.000-07:00

I just stumbled into a cool new online site dedicated to promoting events. It's called "Upcoming.com" (http://upcoming.yahoo.com/). I haven't used it yet, but it looks like a great place to look for events as well as promote events online. The best part is that it's free.

The Arabic character for Riq is...

2008-03-11T20:46:00.000-07:00

Finally, I have discovered the the arabic word for Riq.
Here it is : رق‎
I have been searching for this word, as I have wanted to create a T-Shirt with it on it, but since I am not a native Arabic speaker, I didn't have a clue. Plus I certainly didn't want to put something stupid, in another language, on a T-Shirt. [Nothing worse than wearing the Arabic equivalent of "Kick Me"].

I finally stumbled onto it on the Riq entry page on the Wikipedia site. I hope that this is the correct word/character. If I have misrepresented this, please let me know in the comments section of this blog article.

NAFDA Frame Drum Fest, March 28-30

2008-03-06T06:45:00.000-08:00

The North American Frame Drum Association is presenting the first annual Frame Drum Fest later this month on March 28-30, 2008 in Mendham, New Jersey (USA).

I just got word that there is an opening for one more attendee (apparently somebody had to cancel...). So if you were hoping to attend, but unable to get in, this may be your chance!

Please contact N. Scott Robinson at sonrob@msn.com if you would like to attend. The festival
costs is only $375.00, which includes room and board (2 nights and 7 meals), 2 concerts, 1 clinic, 2 presentation, and 9 workshops with an amazing list of frame drum artists.

A complete schedule is included below

Final & Confirmed Schedule:

COST: $375.00 per person for entire festival
WHERE: Mendham, NJ - USA.

SCHEDULE:

FRIDAY: March 28, 2008

11:00 am - 2:30 pm - Meet & Greet.

3:00 pm - 4:20 pm - Workshop: Marla Leigh - Intro to Frame Drumming and Improvisation (Tar).

4:30 pm -5:30 pm - Clinic: Jamey Haddad - Frame Drums & Looping.

5:30 pm - 7:00 pm - Dinner on site.

7:30 - 9:30 pm - Concert: [click on links to learn more about the performers]

Valerie Dee Naranjo
Marla Leigh
Rafael Pereíra
John de Kadt
Shane Shanahan
Steafan Hannigan & Saskia Tomkins (fiddle) with Oisin Hannigan, and Jamey Haddad with Simon Shaheen (oud & violin) and Peter Slavov (acoustic bass) with Michel Mirhej Baklouk and other performers.

Post-concert: Evening hang / practice / jam sessions

__________________________________________________________

SATURDAY: March 29, 2008

8:00 am - 8:45 am - Breakfast on site.

9:00 am - 10:20 am - Workshop: Rafael Pereíra - Modern Pandeiro & Tamborim Styles.

10:30 am - 12:00 pm - Workshop: Abbos Kosimov - Techniques of Uzbek Doyra.

12:00 - 1:00 pm - Lunch on site.

1:10 - 2:00 pm - Presentation by N. Scott Robinson on "Conservation, Performance, Practice, and Pedagogy: Issues in Kanjira Research in India.

2:10 - 3:20 pm - Workshop: Steafan Hannigan - Traditional Irish Bodhran.

3:30 - 5:30 pm - Workshop: Andrea Piccioni - Italian Tamburello Styles.

5:30 - 7:00 pm - Dinner on site / Break.

7:30 - 9:30 pm - Concert:

Michel Mirhej Baklouk
Yousif Sheronick & Kathryn Lockwood (viola)
Glen Fittin & N. Scott Robinson with K. S. Resmi (Carnatic vocals) & Carl Landa (hammer ducimer & melodica)
David Kuckhermann
Andrea Piccioni
Abbos Kosimov
Glen Velez & Lori Cotler

Post-concert: Evening hang / practice / jam sessions

__________________________________________________________

SUNDAY: March 30, 2008

8:00 am - 8:45 am - Breakfast on site.

9:00 am - 10:20 am - Double Workshop: Michel Mirhej Baklouk & Yousif Sheronick - Traditional & Modern Riq Techniques.

10:30 am - 12:00 pm - Workshop: Shane Shanahan - Techniques for Multiple Frame Drums.

12:00-1:00 pm - Lunch on site.

1:15-2:10 pm - Presentation by ethnomusicologist Jennifer Caputo on "The Tammorra as a Symbol of Cultural Heritage in Campania, Italy."

2:20-3:20 pm - Double Workshop: Glen Fittin & N. Scott Robinson - Duets for Bendir & Fusion Techniques for Ghaval.

3:30-5:30 pm - Workshop: David Kuckhermann - Persian Hand Drumming Techniques of Tonbak & Daf on Frame Drums.

5:30-7:30 pm - Dinner on site & Disperse.

__________________________________________________________

LOCATION:

The Community of St. John Baptist & St. Marguerite's Retreat House

82 West Main Street
Mendham, New Jersey 07945

North American Frame Drum Association, Inc.

My Space.com Frame Drums Group

Frame Drums.org

Reservations & Info: N. Scott Robinson

Raquy and the Cavemen coming to California in May 2008

2008-03-01T08:16:00.000-08:00

Here's a listing of their tour dates:

Tuesday, May 6 - Eureka CAMore Details Soon

Thursday May 8 - Sacramento CAwith UnmataMore Details Soon

Friday, May 9, 8pm - SHOW in Santa Cruz CAPresented by Rhythm Fusion$10 CoverCayuga Vault, 1100 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz CA 831 421 9471

Saturday, May 10, 11:30am - WORKSHOP in Santa Cruz CAPresented by Rhythm FusionAll-Levels Dumbek Workshop - Bring your own drumCayuga Vault, 1100 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz CA 831 421 9471

May 16-18 - Tribalfest, Sebastopol CA

More info here: http://www.raquy.com/upcoming.shtml

Art of Hand Drumming with Marla Leigh, March 2008

2008-02-26T20:59:00.000-08:00

ART OF HAND DRUMMING MARCH SESSION

Dates/Location:

Venice, CA:: March 2, 9, 16, 23 @ 3pm - 5:15pm

Topanga, CA:: March 1, 8, 15, 22 @ 11 - 1:15pm:

In this special percussive intensive, you will learn:

Traditional drumming styles from around the world (Middle East, North and West Africa, India
Traditional Middle Eastern Rhythms
The art of improvising
Techniques to play in solid time
Basic music theory and hand drum notation
How to play various polyrhythms based off of Ghanaian and Moroccan music
Solkattu, (traditional South Indian rhythmic vocalizations and exercises
Gentle yoga stretches and pranayama to prepare the body for drumming

Frame Drums and some African drums provided, please bring a drum if you have one, no yoga mats needed. All levels welcome
Please reserve your space today as there are limited spaces available.

*THERE WILL BE MAKE UP CLASSES OFFERED IF YOU HAVE TO MISS A CLASS

Fee: $120 if register before Feb. 29, $145 thereafter

Registration: Reservations accepted via PayPal or send check to
Marla Leigh, PO box 293, Topanga, CA 90290.....thank you !!

Once you registrar, please send email to Marla (marla@marlaleigh.com) to tell her which workshop you would signed up for.

Special discount:
Bring a friend, and each receive $10 registration fee.

FOR MORE INFO, please visit
http://www.marlaleigh.com/ArtofHanddrumming.htm

World Rhythm Festival in Seattle April 25-27

2008-02-26T20:54:00.000-08:00

Play, learn, jam, dance, sing... just go! Over 100 world music workshops and performances — all FREE!

WHEN: Friday, April 25 through Sunday, April 27, 2008.

Friday: Celebration of Youth Day -- workshops for children and families, and youth group performances
Friday extended / intensive rhythm workshops for adults
Friday evening Opening Ceremony
Workshops and Performances all day Saturday and Sunday
Drum circles Saturday and Sunday early evening
Saturday night dance party
Sunday closing Carnival Procession
International Marketplace
Drum Rental and Drum Check

Here is the WRF web site: http://www.swps.org/

Excellent Tonbak finger snap video

2008-02-19T16:37:00.000-08:00

This came my way via the Framedrummers listserv. It's an excellent example of fingersnapping technique played on the tonbak (invented by Ostad Daryoush Eshaghy).
If only my fingers could play like this...

Julie Surba, Pyrography Design

2008-02-14T07:42:00.000-08:00

Here's an excellent video of Julie Surba from http://www.pyrography-design.com/ creating a the artwork on a drum for David Kuckhermann. I love her work, and I also love how this video showing the production process, the smoke curling away with each burn.

Hatem Ammous Demonstrates Tunesian Rhythms Part 4

2008-02-02T08:03:00.000-08:00

In part 4 of this video podcast series, David Kuckhermann interviews music professor Hatem Ammous, while on a recent trip to Tunesia.

Here, Professor Ammous demonstrates the Tunesian rhythm "Barwel" on all three drums.

Hatem Ammous Demonstrates Tunesian Rhythms Part 3

2008-02-01T07:49:00.000-08:00

In part 3 of this video podcast series, David Kuckhermann interviews music professor Hatem Ammous, while on a recent trip to Tunesia.

Here, Professor Ammous demonstrates the Sufi and Tunesian rhythm "Btaihi", illustrating the Sufi method, the modern method and the popular method of playing it on the Bendir. He also plays it on the Dourbouka. I really like the finger work on this rhythm.

Also, in this video Professor Ammous demostrates the Tunesian method for playing the Riq (known in Tunesia as the "Tar"). He then goes on to play the rhythm "Btaihi" on the Riq. It's a unique and really cool method of 'turning' the drum, keeping the right hand stationary in space.

He finishs the session playing the rhythm "M'dawar" on all three drums.

So far, this is my favorite video of the series!

Hatem Ammous Demonstrates Tunesian Rhythms Part 2

2008-01-31T07:41:00.000-08:00

In part 2 of this video podcast series, David Kuckhermann interviews music professor Hatem Ammous, while on a recent trip to Tunesia.

Here, Professor Ammous demonstrates the oriental rhythm "M'rabaa Bedwi" and the Sufi rhythm "Aji" Al Ghita rhythms on both the Bendir and Dourbouka, illustrating the different interpretations of the rhythms with respect to the Dum and Tek for each drum.

Hatem Ammous Demonstrates Tunesian Rhythms Part 1

2008-01-30T19:08:00.000-08:00

In this video, David Kuckhermann interviews music professor Hatem Ammous, while on a recent trip to Tunesia. David has pulled together some amazing online drum lessons and his DVD is full of great techniques and rhythms for the frame drums. This online video is really well produced.

Here, Professor Ammous demonstrates the Fazzeni and Al Ghita rhythms on both the Bendir and Dourbouka, illustrating the different interpretations of the rhythms with respect to the Dum and Tek for each drum. It's interesting that he makes a point of saying that the Darbouka is for classical rhythms.

Caravansary UK Frame Drum Festival

2008-01-29T07:15:00.000-08:00

The Caravansary UK Frame Drum Festival is scheduled to take place again this year.

What: Caravansary 3rd Annual Frame Drum Festival
When: May 24 - 25, 2008

Where: St. Marks Church, Myddleton Square, London, England EC1R 1XX United Kingdom

Cost: All events and workshops priced at £7 (£6.50 conc.).

Details: Coordinated by Lennie Charles, Please call on (from UK) 0208 985 4596 or email
lennie.charles@gmail.com with any questions.

WEBSITE: http://www.caravansary.org/

FRAME DRUM MAGICK with JUDY PIAZZA

2008-01-27T08:35:00.000-08:00

Judy Piazza is presenting a workshop and concert in Southern California.

WHEN: Sunday, February 3
WORKSHOP: 1-5 pm
CONCERT: 7 pm** (with workshop participants)
WHERE: SACRED SPACE of SANTA BARBARA

COST: $50 workshop & concert by 1/25/08; $60 after 1/25/08. $10 concert only. Potluck supper before evening event.

For the workshop, bring your own tar and tambourine. Drums will also be available for use and sale. Develop skill on these most ancient of drums. Learn the elemental language of the drums, explore rhythms inspired by traditions around the world as well as by our own indigenous selves, focus on ensemble playing, feel the power and joy of drumming with others!

This special event with Judy will be at the incredibly beautiful SACRED SPACE private retreat center in the foothills of Santa Barbara. http://www.sacredspaceh20.com/

Directions will be sent with confirmation.

TO REGISTER:
Call 805-569-5009 or 248-563-0049. Send your payment to: Judy Piazza, PO
Box 1825, Ojai, CA 93024
http://www.resonanceandrhythms.com/

Frame Drum Group on Myspace

2008-01-25T17:32:00.001-08:00

Here's a link for the frame drum group on Myspace: http://groups.myspace.com/framedrums

There are forums where you can ask questions or participate in the discussion.

Cooperman Drum in Europe

2008-01-25T08:26:00.000-08:00

Frame Drums Europe has just announced a relationship with Cooperman Drums to resell their drums in Europe. You'll find their online catalog here: http://drumsshop.framedrumseurope.org/

Japan Frame Drum Association

2008-01-24T06:57:00.000-08:00

If you happen to be living in or traveling to Japan, make sure to connect with folks from the Japan Frame Drum Association: http://framedrum-japan.org/