Afro Cuban percussion

About this course

Participants explore the cultural context and rhythmic traditions of Afro-Cuban percussion, including son, rumba, bolero, danzón and bembé 6/8. The course covers techniques on several percussion instruments, clave patterns, timing and musical feel. Teaching combines demonstrations, group playing and listening exercises, with most of the session spent making music together. The course also considers how Afro-Cuban rhythmic ideas can be adapted for funk, rock, R&B, samba and bossa nova, while developing ensemble listening and response.

What you'll learn

• Play techniques on a range of percussion instruments
• Identify clave patterns and explain their role in different rhythms
• Perform Afro-Cuban rhythmic patterns within an ensemble
• Adapt Afro-Cuban percussion ideas to other musical genres
• Listen and respond effectively to other musicians

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for complete beginners as well as learners with some Latin percussion experience. It is an open-level ensemble involving group playing, demonstrations and listening exercises. No previous musical knowledge or music reading is required.

• Beginners and more experienced percussion players learn together
• Learners can participate without reading music
• There is no required work outside class

Before you go

• Congas, cowbells, shakers, shekere, claves, guiro and bongos are provided.
• Participants may bring their own instrument if preferred, but this is not required.
• Written notation for some patterns is available for visual guidance and home practice, but is optional.
• Practising at home is optional and may help reinforce learning.