Drummers and friends - I'm VERY excited to announce the launch of my new Fremont Drum website! The site represents the culmination of over 30 years of studying, learning, drumming, integrating and teaching African and Afro-Caribbean rhythms.
Our DrumBlog is the "Heartbeat" of our Fremont Drum Online community. It includes many exciting categories filled with articles you can explore to learn about and enjoy Afro-Caribbean rhythms, culture and community. We're happy to share more on any topic or category you have an interest in, so if you have suggestions for future articles let us know!
Feel like joining a drum circle? Want to take a class? If so, you'll eventually need your own drum! But which one? This article discusses the different drum styles and materials you'll want to consider.
COMING SOON: Arturo Rodriguez
Welcome to the Artist Spotlight where we introduce you to local, regional, national, and international drummers, musicians and dancers at the top of their game.
This Artist Spotlight shines a light on Arturo Rodriguez. Arturo is a Seattle-based musician, author, teacher, and DJ. He has performed worldwide, sharing the stage with many legends.
The West African talking drum is a laced, double-headed hourglass-shaped drum, worn across the shoulder with a strap and played on one head with a curved wooden beater. It is found in Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Cameroon, and across much of West Africa.
In this category, we showcase original recorded songs / compositions submitted by our ESSENTIAL and UNLIMITED members!
The only guideline is that the composition be inspired by African or Afro-Caribbean rhythms – how you interpret this is completely up to you, so read on to find out how to submit your entries!
Our first Member Showcase features Will Matthews. Will is the owner of Fremont Drum in Seattle, WA. Will has been studying (and teaching) African and Afro-Caribbean rhythms for over 30 years.
From: Seattle, WA
Rhythm Inspiration: Afro-Blue 2-Drum Rhythm
Song Title: Frogs
COMING SOON: Arara & Michael Spiro
In our first Deep Dive, article, we will explore the relationship between Michael Spiro, a world-renowned drummer and teacher, and Arara, a relatively unknown musical/spiritual tradition from the Matanzas region of Cuba. Arara centers around the worship of a Pantheon of deities called Foducces, each representing different aspect of nature and life, as well as exhibiting different human characteristics.
