How to Use Polyrhythms and Sixteenth Notes on Djembe Drums

You've got the basics down when it comes to playing your djembe drum and are ready for the next step. Get together with a friend and try out some polyrhythms and new beat patterns to spice things up. There are only a few things you need to keep in mind when playing polyrhythms and sixteenth notes on your djembe drum.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Start with a fairly simple rhythmic pattern that uses a straight forward combination of beats, like quarter and eighth notes. Once you get the hang of playing with the other drummer, you will be able to work out more complex rhythms together later.

2. Listen to the first rhythm carefully. Get a feel for what notes are being used and different rhythmical patterns. Notice any gaps in the first rhythmic pattern that you may be able to fill in with the second pattern including faster notes, like sixteenth notes, and varied meters.

3. Match the second rhythmic pattern with first, fitting the two together. One way to do this is to try reversing the beat pattern of the first rhythm. Another way may be to use off beats and syncopation against the first rhythm.

4. Play around with different notes, like eighth and sixteenth notes and creative patterns. Adding faster notes, like sixteenth notes, against the first rhythm's quarter notes is a great way to compliment the original beat.

5. Try to vary the tones in the second rhythmic pattern to enhance the first pattern. Weave the different tones in and out between the 2 parts so there is variety. Experiment with beating out the notes on different parts of the drum head or using your fingertips or the heel of your hand in different combinations.