to hand or not to hand

[Brian Lynch]

I started playing djembe four years ago and taking lessons in which i was thought hand to hand because the teachers my teacher had in Africa a fast played Ballet style. From that point we found out it wasn't the most efficient way to play when we started learning traditional rhythms. I am a right handed person but ive bin playing leading with my left hand. this suits most rhythm but sometimes it twists my thinking, Its a silly situation to be in but does any have any advise. Should i continue or use my strong right hand to follow.

[the kid]

Have you tried beating it with your head?

[Brian Lynch]

i have a horse outside

[michi]

I started playing djembe four years ago and taking lessons in which i was thought hand to hand because the teachers my teacher had in Africa a fast played Ballet style. From that point we found out it wasn't the most efficient way to play when we started learning traditional rhythms.

As best as I can tell, the jury is out as to whether ballet handing or traditional handing is better. Certainly, I've had master drummers teach me who insisted on ballet handing, and other master drummers insist on traditional handing.

Personally, I have a preference for traditional handing because I find it easier to stay locked in that way. Getting the micro-timing correct also seems easier with traditional handing. But there are times where I change to ballet style, particularly for patterns that overwork one side.

I am a right handed person but ive bin playing leading with my left hand. this suits most rhythm but sometimes it twists my thinking, Its a silly situation to be in but does any have any advise.

In my experience, if you are clearly right-handed but play left-handed, you are making things harder for yourself. Without exception, all the teachers I've had told their students to lead with the strong hand (keeping the strong hand on the down-beat).

Should i continue or use my strong right hand to follow.

I don't think anyone can give you an honest answer here, at least not without spending a lot of time with you to observe how you play. The best you can probably do is find a good teacher who is willing to take you under his wing and take the time to observe and advise you.

Cheers,

Michi.

[Brian Lynch]

thanks Michi. I am going back to Africa so i will take the time to train back my right hand i am thinking..