X8 Drums Blog

Today’s drum set is a modern evolution of technology, style and sound, regardless of the drums, cymbals and percussion instruments used. A drum set is typically comprised of a snare drum, bass drum, tom toms and cymbals, allowing for rhythm to take on its own vibe through the creativity of the drummer. It is this creativity that was the inspiration for the invention of the drum set, as drummers began to strive to play more complicated rhythms on more than one drum. Once drums were less about b …

Not all of us are fortunate enough to have large homes or ample basement space in which to store our musical instruments. Small living spaces may be more the norm, whether or not that fits into our concept of ideal living. With this in mind, there are several different types of drums for small spaces. These drums help make it easier to bang out our favorite rhythms and create new ones. And, even for those of us with plenty of space in our homes for whatever kind of drums we desire, the follow …

X8 Drums loves a good jam session, especially one that bonds and empowers a group of people. San Diego-based non-profit Banding Together takes the power of jam sessions and drum circles further by providing free music therapy for young men and women with developmental disabilities. Once a week during the 12-week program, professional musicians volunteer to host a jam session using various instruments, including hand drums. But the jam sessions are about more than playing music. Banding Toge …

You don’t have to travel to West Africa to immerse yourself into its unique arts and rich culture. Thanks to organizations like Lannaya, you can experience the rhythms and dances of West Africa right here in the U.S. - more particularly, right here in Austin. Founded by African Master Drummer Alseny Sylla and New York-based choreographer Suzannah Kincannon, Lannaya is a non-profit arts organization that preserves African Diaspora Arts and educates the local community on West African arts an …

In 2012, drummer Jason Barnes lost his right hand and forearm in a work accident. The accident seemingly left Barnes unable to play and understandably depressed, but his passion for drumming and music was greater than his loss. In the most inspiring of ways, Barnes found a way to play again using a robotic arm. During the Georgia Tech Center for Music Technology Robotic Musicianship Concert on March 22, Barnes debuted his new robotic arm and gave the first-ever musical performance using the GATe …

As experts in all things hand drums, we have run across a lot of different views and questions from people who may not truly understand the beauty and tradition behind djembe drums, bongos or other hand percussion instruments. In order to facilitate a better understanding of why we are crazy for hand drums, here are the top hand drumming myths we have come across in our own discovery and exploration of these beautiful instruments. Hand Drums are for Hippies?Hand drums are for hippies, and for p …

There are basic drumming rhythms for the djembe. One of those basics is called the yankadi rhythm. Once you have heard it, you will know it, as it is a slow rhythm, encouraging one to get up and celebrate the ancestors or simply march in a procession down to the ocean and pay tribute to an Orisha. The sound is at once distinct and provocative. While there are books available to help a drummer interested in learning this rhythm, they are not the most reliable source. It is probably best to learn …

Maybe you have been playing your djembe for months, or even years, understanding the powerful experience this instrument provides. Maybe you finally decided that you want to start drumming with others who share your love for rhythm. Perhaps, even, you have sat and listened to a drum circle, understanding the beauty that comes from a community of people making music and rhythm together. Whatever your reasons may be, you want to participate in a drum circle but may feel a little awkward or intimid …

Few things can put a smile on a child’s face, regardless of age or ability, than a room full of musical instruments ready to be played. The creative and expressive benefits of music for children are numerous, as well as the value in academics and self-esteem, making music education one of the most beneficial programs in schools today. The benefits of music for children start as early as preschool, and continue throughout elementary, middle or junior high, and high school. Classes es …

Many consider the drum roll to be one of the most fundamental rudiments that a drummer needs to know. The basic idea behind a drum roll is that, with each stroke, the drummer will allow the drum stick to bounce making an extra beat creating the impression that there is one continuous sound emanating from the drum. But how does one produce a roll on a hand drum without sticks or mallets?In reality, a seasoned drummer will tell you that if you want a controlled roll with a clear, even sound, you d …