Kita Soli / Beginners Djembe Drumming from Udemy

Kita Soli / Beginners Djembe Drumming

Welcome . So glad you are considering to take my course.

What to expect:

When it comes to drumming there are 3 fundamental building blocks:

1. Technique2. Timing3. Tempo

We will refine our personal and group understanding of these concepts through playfully exploring a variety of rhythms.

Without lengthy explanation the drum will guide you to the peace you seek. There is no rhythm without presence, when that presence becomes evident energy and ecstasy follow. However nothing worth doing is easy so expect to work your body and mind in the pursuit. Then watch with wonder as your skills progress, your perceptions sharpen, and your body strengthens. This practice will improve your memory, coordination and overall brain function. On a musical level your sense of timing, tempo, and swing will be greatly improved. Beyond technical understanding you will also be shown how to improvise based on your own intuition. To play this type of music takes a communal effort. The more we drum together the more we see how the interconnection of each of our individual rhythms create one larger singular rhythm. The skills derived from communal drumming when applied to other community efforts greatly improve their efficiency and lend a light touch to ones efforts.

The skills taught in this class are universally applicable to all music. No previous experience needed. Simply show up with an open heart and eagerness to learn.

The lessons are slow paced with lots of details to assist you in getting the parts and building confidence as you go

Party Time .

Let it go. Shake off the worries of the day and hit the djembe.

Community
Enthusiasm
Co-creation
Empowerment

Kita Soli invites you back to yourself. Dance and play with your friends and community to the sound of this friendly rhythm.

Everyone is invited

Play alone, with friends, at a drum circle, during a open mic or at a gig. Kita Soli goes well with all types of common time music. This is a cornerstone rhythm everyone can benefit from learning.

Once you know Kita Soli you are the party. What are you waiting for, get started .

Origin

Kita, Mali

Kita is a town and urban commune in western Mali. The town is the capital of the Kita Cercle in the Kayes Region. It lies on the eastern slope of Mount Kita (Bambara: "Kita-kulu"), known for its caves and rock paintings. Today, the town is known for its music, its annual Roman Catholic pilgrimage and its role as a processing center for the surrounding cotton- and peanut-growing region. Kita lies on the Dakar-Niger Railway and is the largest transit hub between Bamako (112 miles) and Kayes (205 miles). In the 2009 census the urban commune had a population of 48,947.[1]

In November 1955, Kita became a commune of average exercise. On March The town grew in the 1990s around the cotton industry, but this has since declined.

About the rhythm Kita Soli

This is a fun rhythm similar to Djansa a very popular rhythm also from Kaye. It is a 4/4 rhythm with a celebratory feeling. It is a crowd pleaser, always good for any party atmosphere.

I chose this rhythm as the basis for my beginners course because I noticed at some point in my progression as a musician that the feeling of Kita Soli was in the vast majority of popular music styles running from Rock, Hip-hop, Pop, Jazz, electronic music, Country, Kirtan, and drum circles. Everyone was playing Kita Soli but didn’t know it. It was in fact one of the very first rhythms I learned in my early days at drum circles. This rhythm is encoded in our musical DNA. Young and old will recognize it on a body level and rock to the beat when heard. Seeing that it was what everyone was trying to play anyways I decided to expand on the theme. Here you will find a total of 24 variations on the root Djembe sole part from the rhythm Kita Soli. Enjoy .

What’s covered:

Section 1

Intro
Get to know your Djembe
Rudiments
Full Lesson
Rhythms 1 - 6 recorded in 5min downloadable shorts
Practice instructions
Test your skills and play along with me

Section 2

Intro
Rhythms 1-6 full instructional lesson introducing the slap sound
Rhythms 1 - 6 recorded in 5min downloadable shorts
Dun Dun Solo instruction
Practice instructions
Test your skills and play along with us

Section 3

Intro
Rhythms 1-6 full instructional lesson introducing the Bass layer
Rhythms 1 - 6 recorded in 5min downloadable shorts
Dun Dun Solo instruction
Practice instructions
Test your skills and play along with us

My story:

It is a miracle that I am here at all.

My life was heading in a direction of total catastrophe. My environment was incredibly abusive and so my life was a living hell. Filled with depression, and anxiety I was on the brink of suicide. Then I found the drum.

Drumming literally saved my life.

It allowed me to release and express my pent up emotions.

I was not musician material, I had no concept of music. I had no concept of anything except hate, rage, and depression. The drum didn’t mind, she invited me to strike and express it all.

My very first instruction came from my Mother, she approached me one day as I was frantically beating my drum in the back yard of my family home. She sat with me and explained that to play music I had to understand and implement the down-beat. It took me a couple years of frantically beating my drum before those words began to sink in.

I played because I had to, it was medicine, it was church, it was also family. My life revolved around it.

The drum guided me, providing me with a level of trust I had yet to encounter with any person or modality. She gave me a purpose, even if no one else knew. Playing the drum connected me to the rhythm of life.

Over time it released me from my emotional / mental burdens revealing to me that there is a choice ever present:

to be humble and let go to the rhythm of life it’s self or to cling to my own interpretations and stories. She reintroduced me to my inner drum, my heart

This is a success story but not your typical type of success. I was suicidal, filled with toxic hate and shame. I was literally in hell.

Playing the drum saved my life, healed my mind, regulated my emotions, connected me to loving community, reconnected me with my heart, and brought hope to me through revealing that magic does exist

It can do the same for you. You don’t need to be a musician to experience these types of breakthroughs. You just need to show up and hit the drum.

I hope this message meets you well

Timothy

What's inside

Learning objectives

Djembe drumming

How to drum

Djembe drumming
How to drum

Syllabus

Students can expect to learn the 1st part of my three part series Keeta Soli

Short introduction of the beginners Djembe drum course.

Get to know your instrument

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Breaks down the fundamentals of drumming into technique, timing, and tempo, which are essential for beginners to grasp and build upon, fostering a solid foundation

Explores the Kita Soli rhythm, which the instructor believes is encoded in our musical DNA and is recognizable across various popular music styles, making it accessible and engaging

Offers a total of 24 variations on the root Djembe sole part from the rhythm Kita Soli, providing ample opportunity for exploration and creative expression

Is part of a three-part series, suggesting a structured and progressive learning path for students who wish to deepen their understanding of Djembe drumming

Requires students to have access to a Djembe drum, which may be an additional cost for some learners, potentially creating a barrier to entry

Focuses on a specific rhythm, Kita Soli, which may limit the breadth of exposure to other drumming styles and techniques, potentially narrowing the scope of learning

Reviews summary

Beginner djembe drumming: kita soli rhythm

According to learners, this course offers a positive and engaging introduction to djembe drumming, particularly focusing on the Kita Soli rhythm. Many highlight the instructor's clear and patient teaching style and the way technical rudiments are broken down into easy-to-follow steps. The practice tracks and play-along sessions are frequently mentioned as very helpful for building confidence. Students appreciate the course's unique blend of technical skills and emphasis on the personal benefits of drumming, finding it both fun and rewarding for focus and presence. It is seen as a solid starting point for absolute beginners seeking to learn the basics in a supportive atmosphere.

Drumming offers focus and presence.

"Beyond just technique, the course emphasizes the feeling and presence of drumming."

"I felt more centered and relaxed after practicing the rhythms taught here."

"It's more than just drumming; it's about connecting with rhythm and yourself."

Play-along tracks aid learning.

"The downloadable practice tracks are incredibly helpful for reinforcing lessons."

"Playing along with the instructor and the group really solidifies the rhythm."

"I loved the 'test your skills' sessions to check my progress."

Instructor is passionate and encouraging.

"The instructor's passion for drumming is infectious and motivating!"

"Timothy is a very patient and inspiring teacher who makes learning enjoyable."

"He creates a supportive and welcoming environment for students."

Excellent start for absolute beginners.

"This course was perfect for me as a total beginner with no prior music experience."

"The lessons are slow-paced and really break things down into manageable parts."

"I felt comfortable trying the techniques right away and building my skills."

Focuses heavily on one specific rhythm.

"I enjoyed learning Kita Soli, but wished there were other rhythms covered later on."

"It's a deep dive into one rhythm, which is great for mastery, but less variety."

"Good for mastering Kita Soli, but you'll likely need other resources for more rhythms."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Kita Soli / Beginners Djembe Drumming with these activities:

Practice Basic Djembe Strokes

Show steps

Reinforce fundamental djembe strokes (bass, tone, slap) to build a solid foundation for learning Kita Soli rhythms.

Show steps

Review videos demonstrating proper hand positioning and striking techniques.
Practice each stroke slowly and deliberately, focusing on sound quality.
Use a metronome to ensure consistent timing and rhythm.

Explore 'The Djembe Guide' by Serge Blanc

Show steps

Gain a deeper understanding of djembe techniques and rhythms to enhance your learning experience in the Kita Soli course.

View Melania on Amazon

Show steps

Read the sections on basic strokes and techniques.
Explore the rhythm notation and try playing along with the examples.
Research the history and cultural significance of the djembe.

Practice Kita Soli Variations

Show steps

Solidify your understanding of Kita Soli by practicing the variations taught in the course.

Show steps

Select a variation from the course materials.
Play the variation slowly and repeatedly until comfortable.
Gradually increase the tempo while maintaining accuracy.
Record yourself playing and identify areas for improvement.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Record a Kita Soli Performance

Show steps

Showcase your skills and solidify your learning by recording a performance of Kita Soli.

Show steps

Choose a Kita Soli variation to perform.
Practice the variation until you can play it confidently.
Set up a recording device and record your performance.
Share your recording with others for feedback.

Jam with Other Drummers

Show steps

Improve your timing and rhythm by playing Kita Soli with other drummers.

Show steps

Find other drummers in your community or online.
Schedule a jam session to play Kita Soli together.
Focus on listening to each other and maintaining a consistent rhythm.
Experiment with different variations and improvisations.

Read 'West African Rhythms for Drumset' by Royal Hartigan

Show steps

Expand your knowledge of West African rhythms and their application to drumming.

View Melania on Amazon

Show steps

Explore the sections on rhythms from Mali and surrounding regions.
Adapt some of the rhythms for djembe playing.
Compare and contrast the rhythms with Kita Soli.

Compose a Kita Soli Arrangement

Show steps

Deepen your understanding of Kita Soli by creating your own arrangement for multiple instruments.

Show steps

Choose instruments to include in your arrangement (e.g., djembe, dunun, shaker).
Develop a rhythmic pattern for each instrument based on Kita Soli.
Combine the patterns to create a cohesive arrangement.
Record your arrangement and share it with others.

Career center

Learners who complete Kita Soli / Beginners Djembe Drumming will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Drum Circle Facilitator

A Drum Circle Facilitator leads group drumming sessions, often with a focus on community building and personal expression. This course may be useful for someone aspiring to become a drum circle facilitator, as it dives into the rhythms of the Djembe. It helps build a solid foundation in technique, timing, and tempo. The course's emphasis on communal drumming and improvisation is especially beneficial, providing the future Drum Circle Facilitator with the tools to create engaging and inclusive experiences for participants of all skill levels. The included variations on Djembe rhythms may prove especially useful.

See salaries and explore the career path for Drum Circle Facilitator

Music Teacher

A Music Teacher instructs students in the fundamentals of music, often specializing in a particular instrument or vocal style. This course in Djembe drumming can be helpful for music teachers looking to expand their repertoire and offer a more diverse range of musical experiences to their students. The course emphasizes technique, timing, and tempo, which are crucial for effective music instruction. Moreover, the course's focus on communal drumming and improvisation may provide a music teacher with new approaches to group instruction and fostering creativity within the classroom.

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Community Arts Worker

A Community Arts Worker facilitates arts-based activities within a community setting to promote social inclusion and personal development. This course in Djembe drumming can be useful for a Community Arts Worker interested in offering drumming workshops or programs. The course provides a foundation in technique, timing, and tempo, along with practical instruction on playing the Djembe. The emphasis on communal drumming and improvisation is particularly relevant, as it equips the Community Arts Worker with the skills to create inclusive and engaging experiences for participants of all backgrounds and abilities.

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Wellness Program Coordinator

A Wellness Program Coordinator develops and implements programs to promote the health and well-being of employees or community members. This course in Djembe drumming may be useful for a Wellness Program Coordinator looking for innovative and engaging activities to offer participants. The course provides a foundation in rhythm, timing, and tempo, along with practical instruction on playing the Djembe. The emphasis on communal drumming and improvisation can be particularly beneficial for promoting stress reduction, team building, and creative expression within a wellness program. The coordinator may find that the Djembe is especially useful.

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Recreational Therapist

A Recreational Therapist uses recreational activities, including music, to improve the physical, emotional, and social well-being of clients. This course may be useful for Recreational Therapists seeking to incorporate drumming into their therapeutic interventions. The course's emphasis on rhythm, timing, and tempo helps build a foundation for leading drumming activities with clients. The focus on communal drumming and improvisation can be particularly beneficial for promoting social interaction and self-expression within a therapeutic setting. The Recreational Therapist may find that Djembe is especially useful.

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Music Therapist

A Music Therapist uses music to address the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. Often this role requires a master's degree. This course may be useful for aspiring Music Therapists interested in incorporating rhythm and drumming into their practice. The course's emphasis on drumming as a tool for emotional release and community connection aligns with the core principles of music therapy. The personal story shared within the course about how drumming helped overcome adversity may also provide inspiration and insight into the therapeutic potential of music. Learning about Djembe may especially help connect with clients from West Africa.

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Music Director

A Music Director oversees the musical aspects of a performance group or organization, such as a choir, band, or orchestra. This course focusing on Djembe drumming may be useful for a Music Director looking to expand their knowledge of percussion instruments and rhythms. The course's emphasis on technique, timing, and tempo can enhance the Music Director's ability to lead and instruct percussion sections. The Music Director may also incorporate Djembe rhythms and techniques into their musical arrangements or performances, adding a unique and dynamic element to their ensemble's sound.

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Community Organizer

A Community Organizer works to empower community members to address social issues and create positive change. This course may be useful for a Community Organizer interested in using music as a tool for community engagement and mobilization. The course's emphasis on communal drumming and improvisation aligns with the principles of community organizing, which prioritize collaboration, participation, and collective action. The Community Organizer may leverage drumming workshops or events to bring people together, build relationships, and foster a sense of shared identity and purpose.

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Event Planner

An Event Planner is responsible for organizing and coordinating events, such as parties, weddings, and corporate gatherings. This Djembe drumming course may be useful for Event Planners looking for unique entertainment options to offer clients. The course provides a basic understanding of Djembe rhythms and techniques, which can be incorporated into live music performances or interactive drumming sessions at events. The Event Planner may also consider organizing drum circles or drumming workshops as a teambuilding activity or icebreaker for corporate events. The Djembe is sure to be a party pleaser.

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Early Childhood Educator

An Early Childhood Educator works with young children to foster their cognitive, social, and emotional development. This course in Djembe drumming may be useful for Early Childhood Educators interested in incorporating music and rhythm into their programs. The course provides a basic introduction to drumming technique, timing, and tempo, which can be adapted for use with young children. The course's emphasis on communal drumming and improvisation may help Early Childhood Educators create fun and engaging musical experiences that promote creativity and cooperation. Learning to play Djembe may be especially useful.

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Elementary School Teacher

An Elementary School Teacher educates children in a variety of subjects to build a foundation for future learning. The future Elementary School Teacher may find this course in Djembe drumming may be useful for incorporating music and rhythm into the classroom. The course provides a basic understanding of drumming technique, timing, and tempo, which can be applied to various musical activities. Moreover, the course's emphasis on communal drumming may help an Elementary School Teacher foster a sense of community and collaboration among students. The lessons may be especially useful for younger children.

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Lifestyle Coach

A Lifestyle Coach supports clients in enhancing their overall well-being through various strategies, including incorporating hobbies and creative pursuits. This course in Djembe drumming can be useful for a Lifestyle Coach looking to introduce clients to the benefits of music and rhythm. The course provides a foundation in technique, timing, and tempo, which can be applied to drumming as a stress-relieving and mood-boosting activity. The Lifestyle Coach may also encourage clients to explore the communal and improvisational aspects of drumming to foster social connection and self-expression.

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Camp Counselor

A Camp Counselor supervises children and leads activities at a summer camp or similar program. This course may be useful for Camp Counselors looking for new and engaging activities to offer campers. The course provides a basic understanding of drumming technique, timing, and tempo, along with instruction on playing the Djembe. The emphasis on communal drumming and improvisation may help a Camp Counselor create fun and inclusive musical experiences for campers of all ages and skill levels. Additionally, learning 24 variations of one style may provide a Camp Counselor ideas for activities.

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Horticultural Therapist

A Horticultural Therapist uses plants and gardening activities to improve the well-being of individuals. This course may be useful for Horticultural Therapists looking for additional ways to connect with their patients. The course provides a basic understanding of drumming technique, timing, and tempo, along with instruction on playing the Djembe. The emphasis on communal drumming and improvisation may help a Horticultural Therapist create fun and inclusive experiences for patients of all ages and skill levels. Introducing patients to Djembe may improve their physical dexterity as well.

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Personal Trainer

A Personal Trainer guides individuals in reaching their fitness goals through exercise and lifestyle changes. This course may be useful for Personal Trainers looking for new and engaging activities to offer clients. The course provides a basic understanding of drumming technique, timing, and tempo, along with instruction on playing the Djembe. The emphasis on communal drumming and improvisation may help a Personal Trainer create fun and inclusive fitness experiences for clients of all ages and skill levels. This course focuses on the importance of rhythm and exercise.

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Reading list

We've selected one books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Kita Soli / Beginners Djembe Drumming.

Kita Soli / Beginners Djembe Drumming

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Beginner djembe drumming: kita soli rhythm

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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