I am excited that I have been offered my first regular gig as a drummer. Starting this week, I am going to be playing dunun for an African Dance class in Providence. I couldn't be more thrilled.
Drumming for a dance class is one of the very best ways to improve as a drummer. For one thing, it is extremely physical... almost as demanding as the dancing. I will play at a good clip for an hour straight, with no breaks. Each week we will probably work on a new dance, which means I will be playing a variety of pieces. One week, Madan. The next, Sunu. It is going to put me through my paces.
In West Africa, drumming and dancing go hand in hand. They are two parts of a single experience. Playing for dancers is the perfect next step to hone my skills. I am really happy about it.
