X8 Drums Blog

If you’ve ever picked up a guitar and just started strumming or sat in front of a piano and began plucking keys, then you probably understand how calming those actions can be. Strumming may lead to some humming and before you know it, you are feeling more relaxed and peaceful than you have all day. Or maybe plucking those few keys dusted off some long-dormant urges and you find yourself energized and making up a song. We can never predict exactly how music will affect us, but it always affects …

The bougarabou is a big drum with a big sound. Similar in look to the djembe, it is larger and has a deeper resonance. It comes to us from West Africa, specifically from the Jola peoples in Casamance, Senegal and the Gambia. Traditionally, it is played with just one drum, but in recent times bougarabou drummers have taken to playing up to four drums at once.The bougarabou drum is sometimes referred to as the conga drum of Africa. This is due to similar tonal qualities the two drums share. Howeve …

One of the most fun ways to introduce music to your classroom environment may be to create percussionists. What is great about percussion instruments is that they come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and sounds, making them perfect for just about any group of individuals no matter age or size. Another benefit is that they often require little to no musical background or formal instruction.There are various ways to enjoy percussion in the classroom. You can introduce different types of drums that …

Strength or stamina? This is a question often asked among drummers concerned with how their fitness levels impact their drumming capabilities. It makes sense that the more fit a drummer is, the longer sessions can last and the more often drummers can drum. But should more emphasis be given to strength training or stamina building?Most seasoned drummers will agree that stamina is more important than strength. Drumming is an experience in endurance and that is what stamina is all about. Fitness a …

A Djembe makes a great gift for people with musical talent, a willingness to try new things, or that person who seems to have everything. They can bring out a sense of wonder within each of us. Their tonal sound is beautiful and lively. These traditional African drums can become creative outlets for people of all ages. Both children and adults will find the Djembe’s unique fun and ease of play enjoyable. The Djembe is a great instrument for beginners and masters alike where both groups appreciat …

A holiday celebration is nothing without food, fun, friends, family… and drumming. The end-of-year holidays in December keep us all jumping, whether with kids, taking care of business, preparing too much food, or shopping for perfect gifts. This time, however, is also when we reflect on the previous year or years, appreciate our lives a little more, and take time to celebrate with those we love the most. For drummers, there is no better way to celebrate these days than by sharing a love of music …

To properly play your djembe, you need to understand the proper methods of playing your drum to create the sound it was intended to produce. One of these basic strokes includes the Bass Tone.Using the palm of your hand to strike the center of the drumhead creates the Bass tone, or Bass stroke.To begin, you need to position your arm and hands properly. The fingers should be extended and together; they should be straight but relaxed. And your wrist should remain in line with the rest of your arm. …

An excellent way to keep a teenager occupied is to get them a djembe. Drumming has a number of tremendous benefits that are perfect for a restless teen. Additionally, this instrument makes a very decorative piece in one’s home and once an individual gets skilled at playing it the whole family can enjoy the beat of this magnificent drum. It can provide lively entertainment at family gatherings. It helps relax the mind, soothe the muscles of your hand and bring emotional calm and relaxation to all …

The Percussion Family of instruments is the most varied group of instruments imaginable. With such a wide variety of options, how do you choose which items to include in your own performance?The first thing to understand is the genre of music you are playing and your own personality. The next consideration is gauging the versatility of the instrument. You might enjoy the simple sound of the claves but if you were playing in a heavy metal band, no one would ever hear the beautifully crisp sounds …

We often get asked the question "How do you wear the drum when you are standing up?" In this lesson, we'll show you how to make a drum strap that you can wear around your waist and attach to your djembe for playing while you stand, sit or dance. It's very comfortable and just about anyone can get the materials necessary to make the strap. Instruction by Kenya Masala. It starts off with a strap from a duffel bag. Just about any bag will have a strap that will work for this project …