DRUMMING SHOWCASE!

Today our ensemble of drummers performed for all the staff and pupils in St Mary’s . 

Everyone was blown away by their performance and outstanding drumming skills!

The drummers performed on the "djembe"one of West Africa's best known instruments. This goblet-shaped drum is traditionally carved from a single piece of African hardwood and topped with an animal skin as a drumhead.

Drums play an important role in every aspect of African life, including the physical, emotional and spiritual. African hand drums are played to communicate, celebrate, mourn and inspire. They're played in times of peace and war, planting and harvesting, birth and death.

First, the children performed a traditional West African piece representing the planting and growing of crops.

Next, Dara performed ‘Seven Nation Army’ a song by American Rock band White Stripes.

After that, the drummers played “Djembadon". This is a masking dance to get rid of negative energy and bring positivity to a community.

Leo played “Song 2” by Blur. Leo will perform this piece for his exam in two weeks time.

The ensemble finished with “Sofa”. Sofa means “warrior” in Malinke language. The rhythm was played for the brave and strong men going to combat as well as a praise for their success and bravery when they came back.

We would like to thank our music tutor Mr Austin Gallagher and our pupils who receive drumming lessons for their wonderful performance today! Well done to all our drummers!

Please see the videos and photos below and enjoy the African Drumming!