AUBURN GRESHAM — Rhythms Within U Dance & Fitness will offer an African drumming class for children starting July 18.
The six-week class will meet every Saturday. It will be taught by Sekou Conde, who will delve into the origin of the West African culture. His family is from West Africa, but he was born in Chicago. Conde has taught all over the world. He began drumming as a 1-year-old, and one of his accomplishments is co-founding the Bamana African Drum and Dance Ensemble in Memphis, Tenn.
The classes will be held at the center, 8530 S. Racine Ave., from 3:30-4:15 p.m. Registration is $90. They will practice exercises to become what’s called a “Djembe/Dundun” player. Lessons on breathing properly and stage presentation will also be incorporated into the class.
“Children who attend this course will receive technique in West African drumming, knowledge of West African history and folklore, while learning how to play traditional rhythms that are played for children's rites of passage and ceremonies,” Conde said.
The studio’s owner, Cheretta Hill-Botchwey, said she was exploring ways to sponsor a child.
Adult classes begin also begin on July 18, and will run from 2-3:30 p.m. each Saturday The cost for adults is $125.
Register online at www.iddtcourse.com.
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