X8 Drums Blog

The connection between drums and the military is as old as war itself. In cultures across the world, drums have served as a means of communication over long distances, whether between tribes or rallying troops into battle. This history, while not always illustrious, has become a mainstay of many festivals and celebrations today, where drums are used in parades or other groups in order to reenact the function, beauty and historical significance of drums.The Medieval Tabor is o …

If you are a member of a drum circle or other drumming community, eventually the time will come to divulge your deep, dark love of hand drumming to the world at large. Most drummers have little problem confessing the reasons behind 2AM practice sessions or the need for a roomy van with custom-fit shelves for Djembe bags and Conga stands, but not everyone is so easily open about their adoration of hand percussion instruments. Drumming is as personal as to the drummer as the rhyth …

Teaching music to children increases many academic, social and self-awareness skills, in addition to providing an appreciation for music itself. Reaching children through music today can become a challenge as the disconnect between Mozart and 50 Cent widens the gap between traditional music education and what students may feel is musically relevant. As more fine arts and music programs are being cut from schools, music educators are challenged to find ways to keep the benef …

Music brings joy to people of all ages, but there is a special thrill watching children learn and grow as they are exposed to the magic of song. Children are natural musicians, from baby rattles to singing about the alphabet or dancing to School House Rock. In addition to the creative expression that music allows, the benefits of music in the classroom are life-long, from easing health issues as we age to increasing academic performance. Children exposed to music and rhythm …

No matter if you drum on stage, in a studio or a drum circle, being nervous is part of the life of a performer. Those butterflies, nagging doubts and fear of failure can plague even the most seasoned drummer or percussionist, turning drumming into a love-hate relationship when it comes time to perform in public. Drummers, musicians, artists and performers share pieces of themselves with the audience, and the fear of rejection or failure can be paralyzing. However, drumming …

Batá drums may be best known for their roots in the religious and ceremonial drumming of the Yoruba tribes of West Africa. From the construction to the rhythms played, Batá drums are a culturally rich instrument with distinct ties into spiritual practices. Beyond West Africa, Batá drums are also played by those who practice Santeria, and can be found in Cuba, Puerto Rico and the United States.The hourglass-shaped, three-piece set of Batá drums are used to invoke the presence of …

From the drum circle to the studio, the prevalence of hand drums like the Djembe, bongos or cajon continues to grow and bring a sense of personal connection to music, rhythm and cultures across the world. As more drummers seek different sounds, the inclusion of drums that once seemed exotic has been a strong factor in the music world, especially World Music.The Djembe may be the most well-known hand percussion instrument, but for musicians seeking a different, but complimenta …

Music can be one of the ultimate tools for health and wellness; from the emotional purging that comes with ballads, love songs, or screaming death metal lyrics to the use of drums or other instruments in a community drum circle or therapeutic setting. Music unites people together, through age, spirituality, location or culture. It can be one of the best methods to find or express the authentic Self, or simply be a way to escape into the mood, rhythm and feeling of the momen …

For many drummers, the "need" to drum sneaks up like a ninja in the night. Whether the drummer is a professional, hobbyist or just starting out, the need to express rhythm and music can be overwhelming, driving even the most demure drummer to desperate drumming measures. Finding the right place to drum can be difficult, especially without an organized drumming event. While many drummers may be satisfied with the opportunity to drum at a drum circle, on stage or in a studio, …

Drumming isn't just about music and rhythm, style, tempo and fun. Drumming is a way to connect with others on a level that is unmatched in most community-based music events. Drumming is a versatile art that speaks on many levels, to people from all across the world. It encourages the expression of other drummers and percussionists, different instrumental styles, movement of all types and, of course, dancing with fire.Fire and drumming are both cultural celebrations of life, …