Djembe: West African Drumming...
To play the Djembé is to be
directly involved in a rich musical tradition that is as
vibrant today as in the past.
The history of the Djembé is as fascinating as its sound. Among the Mandinque people of West Africa, the Djembé is considered an important musical instrument and their lives are inextricably entwined in its rhythms. The Djembé is indispensable for occasions like wedding ceremonies, religious festivals such as Ramadan and Tabaski, and for everyday activities such as farming and other work.
The Djembé is an instrument not only to
be played for fun, but also to be used for telling stories
whenever there is a story to be told. Each rhythm has its own
meaning, since the traditions of the Mandinque are handed down
orally from generation to generation. The Duke Djembé Ensemble
learns rhythms in this traditional way, memorizing each one
and its significance as the Mandinque musicians have for hundreds
of years.
The Djembé Ensemble rehearses Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 7:15-9:15 pm in 086 Biddle Music Building. For more information, please contact the Ensemble's director, Bradley Simmons.