Djembe Lessons.
Amazing Teachers.

Why Learn to Play Djembe?

The English word rhythm comes from the Greek _rhuthmos, _which means to flow. When a percussionist plays a rhythmic percussion instrument, like djembe which focuses completely on filling empty space with pleasing, well-timed sounds, he or she's able to enter a mental flow state. This mental flow state can be compared to the brain while in a deeply relaxed state, like meditation.

This flow state imparts all sorts of physical and mental benefits, such as lowered blood pressure, reduced sensations of pain, improved immune system response, and relief from anxiety and depression. Practicing drum playing, whether in a group or individually, has even been shown to help some patients overcome addiction. 

Participating in a drum circle provides a way to experience the community-forming benefits of playing djembe. Drumming in a group creates a sense of bonding and connectedness between group members, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness. Playing djembe in a drum circle is a simple way to become a part of a bigger purpose. 

The Best Way to Learn Djembe and What You'll Study in Djembe Classes

You can easily find a variety of free djembe classes online, but the best way to learn to play djembe is by studying with a private djembe tutor. With a private teacher's undivided attention, you'll overcome personal challenges quickly and receive immediate feedback, before you develop bad habits with the instrument. With a private teacher, you can focus on the rhythms that interest you most, while learning at a pace that's comfortable for you.

Plus, your private tutor will customize each and every lesson to keep you interested and motivated. As a result, no two private djembe classes are exactly alike. Djembe lessons for children differ greatly in terms of teaching style and content from djembe classes for adults. Course content will also vary based on whether you're most interested in learning solo drumming or ensemble techniques. 

Sample Curriculum for Beginner Djembe Lessons

Beginner lessons are intended for students with little or no previous experience playing djembe. In beginner lessons, you'll be introduced to the basics of playing djembe. By practicing these introductory techniques, you'll develop the skills necessary for advancing to playing more challenging and complex rhythms. Your beginner djembe teacher might cover the following topics:

• Proper hold, posture, and hand positions
• Reading djembe notation
• Understanding time signatures
• West African drum terminology
• Bass, tone, and slap techniques

Sample Curriculum for Intermediate Djembe Classes

If you're familiar with the basic principles of djembe, then intermediate lessons are right for you! In intermediate classes, you'll improve your existing skills and be introduced to new rhythmic techniques. You'll work on perfecting your tone and keeping time. Your intermediate djembe teacher might cover the following topics:

• Swing timing
• Paradiddles
• Muted tone
• The roll and the flam
• Exercises to build speed and stamina

Sample Curriculum for Advanced Djembe Lessons

Advanced lessons are perfect for students who've already reached a high level of proficiency on djembe. In advanced lessons, you'll push yourself to overcome personal challenges and perfect your playing techniques. Advanced lesson content depends greatly on the individual student's interests and goals, but your tutor might cover the following topics:

• Polyrhythms
• Improvisation
• Solo and ensemble technique
• Audition coaching
• Performance preparation

How to Find a Djembe Teacher Near You

If you're ready to find your rhythm on the djembe, you'll need a teacher. Luckily, finding a djembe tutor on TakeLessons is easy! A quick search will direct to you to a long list of highly qualified and experienced teachers who offer private djembe classes near you and online. Before selecting the djembe tutor who's right for you, we recommend browsing several teacher profiles and reading through reviews left by other djembe students. 

The price of djembe lessons varies, but most teachers charge rates based on the length and frequency of lessons. With a variety of tutors to choose from, you'll be able to find a djembe teacher who fits both your budget and your schedule. Whichever djembe tutor you choose, private lessons are well-worth your time and monetary investment. You'll learn quickly and pick up new rhythms fast!