Stress-busting drums

Two years ago I signed up to a Professional Development event where people were invited to 'have a go' at African drumming.



It got to within a week of the event and I had to cancel because something unexpected turned up. The same thing happened last year - once again I couldn't go. So this year was my third attempt.

Things were not looking good as there were several emails saying that the event was in a different room - and then back again in the original room. On the day, when I turned up with 3 other people the room was empty and in darkness.

However some more customers arrived and then finally the tutor arrived in dreadlocks and beads, obviously working on 'African time'. I got to try out Djembe (see picture) which you strike with your hands, horizontal drums which you hit with a stick and also two-tone bell sticks.

We were not given any practice time. Once we had chosen a drum the tutor simply went round starting each person in turn by demonstrating what he wanted you to do. I think we played 5 pieces in two hours and the time went very quickly.

And yes, if you don't get worked up about getting the odd beat wrong, it is a good stress-busting activity.