Level 1- Introduction to Congolese rhythms. Producing clear bass, tone and slap sounds. Congolese slap. Basic accompaniment patterns. Moana Binge Rhythm. Pioneer rhythm. Basic 6 beat combinations.

Level 1.5- Mbayeh rhythm with call and break. Faster tempo and more complicated patterns using all three tones. Hamba rhythm. Bonganga rhythm. Developing stamina. Bell and shaker patterns.

Level 2- Understanding the 12 beat cycle. Breaks and calls in 12. The 12 vs. 16 illusion. Ganza rhythm. More work with Mbayeh and Bonganga. Wara rhythm.

Level 3- Kake drum call. Lead patterns, playing for dancers. Elima rhythm. Esombe rhythm. Nzobe rhythm. Bakongo rhythm.

Listening list:
Michel Rafa "Ballet Theater Lemba"
Julien Babinga "Fwa dia Congo"



All materials copyright 1998 PulseWave Percussion and Kim Atkinson.