X8 Drums Blog

The bongos sold today have a rich history that dates back hundreds of years to Cuba, but the construction of this universally-known set of drums has remained in the hands of skilled artisans with knowledge and techniques that have been passed down for generations. While fiberglass bongos are known for their durability and style choices in terms of colors and patterns, most bongoceros agree that the sound of a set of wooden bongos cannot be beat by man-made materials.The she …

African music and drumming has long since utilized different household and non-musical items in order to produce the different sounds, tones and instruments typically thought of as traditionally African. Percussion plays a dominant role in African culture and music, and the instruments used as drums, shakers and other hand percussion instruments were adaptations of materials and items found in and around tribal villages. These instruments have evolved through the years into …

Bongos are one of the most well-known drums in the world. The sounds and rhythms of bongos can be heard in all types and genres of music, bringing a Latin flair and the ability to improvise into rock, pop, country, jazz and many other musical selections. Learning to play the bongos can be a fun and exciting time for the new or experienced drummer looking to incorporate the unique sounds produced by these drums.Bongos are typically played while sitting, although during perfor …

Drum circles happen in all climates, and during all times of the year. Some circles are inside, away from the elements and allergens, while others maintain their presence in the great outdoors. For drum circle drummers who like to bang their Djembe or shake their shekere au naturel, facing the extremes of temperatures may just be part of the whole drumming experience, but it never hurts to have some extra advice, especially when drumming in cold weather climates.In cold weather …

No matter how much you drum, where you drum and what style of drumming you prefer, there may come a time when you want something new, inspirational and creative to enhance your drumming repertoire. Drum circles are constantly evolving through the addition of new people, instruments, focus or intention, so when it's time to bring something new to the rhythm, where do you find your own inspiration?One "man" bands are a whimsical and awe-inspiring tradition of sorts that are reg …

Many people drum for its community aspect, the health and wellness that drumming can provide, or just for the fun and entertainment. Some drummers are die-hard musicians, while others may drum as a natural part of their heritage and ancestry. The reasons to pick up a drum are as varied as the people and the drums that are used, but when you grab your Djembe and start playing a new rhythm, have you ever really thought about what drumming has taught you?At its core, drumming is t …

For the non-drummer, the idea of a Djembe drum solo may be the random beating on a drum, expressing one’s inner rhythm, creativity or the elusive concept of being “carried away” by the music. The benefit of this illusion for the drummer is being seen as a true artist of unlimited drumming potential, especially when it appears that just by chance, the Djembe drummer manages to blend the solo back into the anticipated rhythm, literally without missing a beat. Drummers know that …

For the parent, teacher or case manager responsible for a person affected by autism, there is nothing more important than finding a way to help and benefit the life-long struggles that those “on the spectrum” face as they navigate through school and move into the adult world. With the wellness effects of drumming and the inherent structural benefits of a steady rhythm, drumming can help reach autistic children on a fun and familiar level, giving them great music and a way …

Reiki is a Japanese healing technique that was brought over to the United States in the 1970s. It is thought to have originated in Tibet, and has been practiced in many forms throughout the East. The basis of Reiki is "hands-on healing" that uses inherent energy in order to open chakras and provide healing to the body. Reiki promotes wellness, relaxation, release of negativity and the intention to balance and strengthen energy within the body. There are many Reiki practitione …

DjembePad 1.0 for iPad - Learn and Play Simulated African Djembe Drum[prMac.com] Sofia, Bulgaria - ONYX Apps today is pleased to introduce DjembePad 1.0, their realistic digital drum simulator and practice pad exclusively for iPad. Goatskin is replaced by a high-resolution IPS display, and the ancient and modern worlds meet. Loudness and tone are user controlled, and sounds include: slap, tone, bass, woodblock, and cowbell. An optional metronome helps aspiring percussionists master the …