Learn to Play African Drums!
Discover the Traditional Art of African Music
From the indigenous perspective — private lessons, training programs, and workshops for beginners, music enthusiasts, and professionals.
Program Options
- Private weekly lessons (monthly)
- 12-week Training Program
- Group classes & workshops
- All ages and skill levels
Contact
707-528-4458[email protected]Open today 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Call daytime hours USA Pacific Time.
Drum Lessons + Book
Learn to Play African Drums!
Join a training program or private lessons for beginners, music enthusiasts, and professionals. Private weekly lessons are scheduled and paid for one month at a time. For those who wish to delve deeply into the cultural and technical aspects of African drums, rhythms, and sounds, a twelve-week Training Program is available.
Students who desire group classes or workshops are welcome to organize and promote such events as can fit in my schedule. Learn to perform both simple and complex rhythms and patterns, strengthening musical skills and perceptions. Students will learn basic techniques, experience authentic African rhythm languages, and develop strong improvisational skills, compositions, and confidence in their respective styles.
Former teacher at Sonoma State University, Holy Names College, Marin College, and hundreds of schools, museums, and seminars, Onye Onyemaechi can inspire and contribute a new spirit and direction for drummers and musicians of all levels. Study with a native Nigerian master drummer, composer, recording artist, and educator.
Subscribe to his YouTube channel for solo and band performancesCurriculum
Drumming Levels
Beginners and General
- Learn basic teachings and technique
- Learn to drum in a group
- Cultural and historical context
- Having fun
Intermediate and Advanced
- Understand polyrhythmic structures
- Create simple and complex phrases and solos while playing to rhythmic patterns
- Playing at different tempos
- Perfecting bass, open, and slap techniques
- Performance groups and special gigs
Village Rhythms
What to Expect from Drumming
Welcome to the Village Rhythms family. We offer workshops for all ages and all levels, from beginners to intermediate. Our drumming workshops allow you to feel with your heart through a variety of powerful techniques that support your level of learning. We maintain a healthy psyche nurtured by the wisdom of the ancestors.
Sounds from The Drum: Voice of the Village
Onye Onyemaechi is the author of the richly illustrated book The Drum: Voice of the Village. Copies are available from the publisher.
InquireGet Started
Ready to Begin Your Drumming Journey?
Contact Onye to schedule private lessons, enroll in the 12-week training program, or organize a group workshop.