How to Use Basic Rhythms and Drum Tones on Djembe Drums

The African djembe drum is a fun and easy instrument to learn to play. You can practice on your own to get the feel for the drum, or participate in a drum circle, where you will most likely find players with varying degrees of djembe playing experience. However you plan to pursue the art of this instrument, the key is to relax and enjoy it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Get comfortable in a chair and position the djembe between your knees, making sure the bottom is tipped off the ground so the sound can escape. Place both hands on the center of the djembe to begin practicing a rhythm.

2. Start by tapping the djembe drum in the center, then tap the edge of the drum. You should notice different sounds, or tones. This is very important, because when you listen to an expert play the djembe, you will hear him move around the drum, which varies the sounds and keeps the rhythm interesting.

3. Hit the area just to the inside edge of the drum, and you will hear different tones. Practice all 3 sounds, thinking only about the music and relaxing.

4. Tap out a rhythm in the following count (1 and 2 and 3 and 4), moving around the djembe and getting comfortable with the tones you're playing. Practice faster rhythms when you feel you're catching on to it.

5. Vary how hard you hit the drum in your rhythms, paying attention to how you can produce softer tones and work up to louder tones.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to remove all jewelry from your hands before playing the djembe. Rings and other jewelry can damage the drum if you're not careful.

Resources

• The Expert Village video demonstrates basic tones and rhythms.
• The Drum Circles website has djembe training videos to purchase.
• Learn basic djembe rhythms at Uniting Rhythms.
• The Drums website is a great source for djembe information.