Oh snap. It is the Djembe Singapore Club at the Esplanade!
#mydurian #esplanadesg
We brought our little boy to The Esplanade to watch the Singapore Djembe Club perform with Iya Sako at the Outdoor Theater, and it was an unforgettable experience. Normally, our very active boy can’t sit still during shows, and we’ve often struggled to keep him engaged. But this time was different. The mesmerizing rhythms of the djembe drums completely captivated him, holding his attention in a way we hadn’t seen before. He was frozen in place, his eyes wide as he watched the drummers with absolute focus, enchanted by the powerful beats and vibrant energy of the performance.
The Djembe Man of Singapore
Kelvin Kew is a passionate devotee of Djembe and West African drumming, making him a leading figure in Singapore’s drumming community. Since founding his drumming club in 2004, he has spent 20 years perfecting and promoting this art form. His deep connection to the late Grandmaster Mamady Keita and extensive knowledge of West African rhythms position him as a vital cultural link between Singapore and Africa. Kelvin’s dedication and expertise have made him the torchbearer of Djembe drumming in Singapore, inspiring many with his artistry.
Djembe Lessons in Singapore Schools
Like Kelvin and Djembe Singapore Club, Vinnie Classroom has actively promoted the Djembe in primary schools across Singapore. We’ve had the privilege of introducing students to this West African drum. When Djembe is unavailable, we share the love of percussion through Cajon.
Teaching at the primary level means laying the foundation for rhythmic ensemble skills. Our role is to inspire young minds. By instilling a love for drumming, we help prepare children to potentially join Kelvin and his team in the future, continuing their musical journey.
Iya Sako – Guest artiste for the Crossing Borders Festival
Iya Sako’s incredible Djembe skills left us in awe during the show at The Esplanade. His mastery of complex rhythms and dynamic playing brought a raw energy to the performance, capturing the audience’s attention from start to finish. With precise control and deep passion, Iya showcased the rich tradition of West African drumming, blending technique and emotion effortlessly. His performance was not only a display of talent but a true celebration of the Djembe’s cultural significance, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.
Other than Djembe…
- Kenkeni
- Sangban
- Dundumba
Collectively known as the Dunun, these lesser-known African drums are seldom seen in Singapore and it was such an eye-opener! The first on the list is the Kenkeni drum. The Kenkeni drum is the smallest of the three traditional West African dunun drums, producing a high-pitched tone that serves as a rhythmic base in Djembe ensembles.
The Sangban drum, part of the traditional West African dunun family, produces a medium-pitched sound and plays a key role in establishing the rhythmic patterns that drive Djembe ensembles.
Djembe is for everyone!
Bing stood out as the only female Djembe player of the night. She was captivating the audience with her blazing fast and intricate rhythms. Her exceptional skill and control over the Djembe were nothing short of mesmerizing! She effortlessly delivered complex beats with remarkable precision and speed. Each rhythm she played added energy and intensity to the performance, leaving the crowd in awe of her talent. Bing’s ability to push the limits of speed and complexity truly set her apart, making her a standout performer of the evening.
Conclusion
The Djembe has a unique power to bring people together, fostering unity and peace through its vibrant rhythms. Inspired by the efforts of the Djembe Singapore Club, Vinnie Classroom seeks to contribute to preserving this beautiful art form. We aim introduce its values of community and cultural appreciation to future generations. Ensuring that the spirit of Djembe thrives and continues to inspire harmony in our diverse society.
Don’t take our word for it, take a Trial Lesson with us!
Contact us if you wish to find out more! 🙂
