Thoroughly honoring the Susu drum and dance tradition while keeping it accessible!

books:


	• West African Drum & Dance (A Yankadi-Macrou Celebration) Book & CD, DVD Ryan Camara Alfred Publishing, 2007 - 168 pages average customer review:based on 1 review view larger image
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Thoroughly honoring the Susu drum and dance tradition while keeping it accessible!

There are quite a few books out there offering "West African Rhythms." Some are better than others, but in terms of cultural relevance, most if not all of these books seem to be missing something. They tend to be big on the "rhythms," and not so big on much else. More time may be spent on echaufements and solo lines than the songs, other instruments, and most importantly, the meaning of that particular music.

At almost 170 pages discussing only two "West African Rhythms," this book offers a true glimpse of the Susu culture; through teaching their history, their instruments, dancing, drumming, singing, and more. History and culture are offered in a straight-forward, digestible fashion... and when I say digestible, I'm also referring to actual Susu recipes.

West African Drum & Dance, a Yankadi-Macru Celebration is set up as a curriculum; one that could be used for an older elementary school class as easily as it could be used at the college level. Musical items are broken down and offered in a progressive fashion so that a teacher can customize the speed at which the material is presented. The DVD helps out a lot here as well, and when they show performances, it's from the actual village!

I've played Yankadi/Macru in various settings with people of various levels, including acclaimed Susu djembefola. Looking through this book, I have an entirely new perspective about what it is....it's not a rhythm, it's an involved, beautiful celebration.

Highly recommended to anyone interested in djembe/dunun, and/or in cultural music curriculums.

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The rhythms and dances of Guinea, West Africa spring to life in this ground-breaking multimedia collection from award-winning author Kalani and noted world percussionist Ryan M. Camara! More than just a drumming book, this easy-to-use method immerses teachers and students in traditional West African music, dance and culture through a step-by-step curriculum that maintains cultural authenticity. The World Rhythms! Arts Program (WRAP) is a multiple-discipline curriculum that incorporates drumming, singing, dance, and culture. Rooted in traditional West African music and dance, WRAP helps develop essential arts and life skills through a holistic approach to music and movement education. A must for your classroom! Curriculum Includes: Authentic Techniques & Rhythms, Performance Arrangements, Energetic Dance Steps, History & Culture, Instructional DVD, Play-Along CD

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