Drums and other percussion instruments have long been part of music world-wide, both in entertainment and cultural tradition. Whether the more recent popularity of drumming is due to the portability of the instrument or because of an increased cultural awareness, this trend lends itself to being not only a form of entertainment, but also an exploration of traditional drumming. Many who have taken new interest seek to learn more about traditional African drumming, in particular.

Traditional African drumming is based on spirit. Rhythms call the spirits to celebrations, social gatherings, and spiritual dances. Drummers become one with their drums, becoming a vehicle for releasing the spirit into their surroundings. It becomes critical that these drummers know the rhythms and the spirits they call. In these cases, drums are often the only instruments played. Without being an accompaniment to other music, this traditional drumming is a physically intense art form. African dancers join the drummers and move according to the spirit called by the rhythm of the drums.

In essence, learning traditional African drumming requires more than just musical desire. Locally, Ngozi, Inc. holds drumming classes that include the study of African tradition and culture. Since classes began in October of 97, the drumming class has learned four rhythms. During that learning process, students learn the commitment and endurance that is required for drumming. Three hours of drumming takes a huge toll on the tender hands of beginning drummers. Many of the drumming students are children, learning that drumming is to be taken seriously. As part of a drumming ensemble, they are taught to stay focused, save their energy for class, and to stay tuned in to their fellow drummers to stay in sync. They are also educated on the importance of correct drumming posture, which prevents damage to internal organs, and the care of their hands as they develop resistance to blistering. In addition, drummers are schooled in tuning and maintenance of their instruments, as authentic African drums are made of certain types of wood and skins (e.g., antelope and deer). Replacement of skins used for drum heads is costly, so it is critical that students learn to correctly handle and care for the instruments.

Later this summer, Ngozi will be holding a workshop called “Make Your Own Drum.” Participants need to register by June 30th, with the $175.00 registration fee, so that materials can be ordered in advance. Regular drumming students will keep their drums to allow Ngozi to build a reserve of drums for additional students. Other participants will be able to keep their instruments. Materials for making the drums are costly, but it will save participants the typical purchase price of authentic African drums, which start at $275.00 and up.

It is very important to Ngozi to keep their instruction in line with tradition. Women are only to play certain types of drums, and this tradition is strictly enforced. With so much tradition lost through the days of slavery, when slaves were severely punished if caught drumming (drumming was used as a means of communication), Ngozi many times needs to bring instructors in to educate everyone. Africa is made up of many different countries and traditions, and American studies of African drumming often include a combination of the different regional traditions. Drummers hailing from Senegal, Nigeria and other areas are often brought in to offer “Master Classes” in not only drumming, but also dance instruction.

Ngozi, Inc. has a number of events scheduled prior to the African Family Festival in an effort to allow the Harrisburg community to experience the African drumming tradition. On May 16, at 5:30 pm, the drumming ensemble is scheduled for an exhibition performance at Sweet Passions Coffee House. The ensemble will also be performing at Riverfront Park’s Kunkel Plaza during the annual Arts Festival over the Memorial Day weekend