Middle Eastern & West African Drumming & Dance Classes At Addison Road Community Centre

Coomba Percussion’s Middle Eastern Drumming, West African Drumming and Dance classes are set to return to Addison Road Community Centre once safe to do so. The classes will run for nine weeks once Sydney’s current lockdown ends.

Coomba has played the Middle Eastern Tabla, also known as the darbuka, for over 25 years. Coomba said that COVID-19 has hindered community engagement for the myriad of cultures and ethnicities who call the Inner West home.

“It’s been difficult to get people out and keep traditions alive in the midst of this pandemic. We’ll have to opt for a Zoom class if the lockdown is further extended.”

While Coomba covers Middle Eastern Drumming, internationally recognised Guinea Djembe Master Drummer BangouraKe lends his expertise in the West African Drumming and Dance classes.

“The classes encourage teamwork, positive social skills, interaction, coordination and memory recall. Aside from that, it’s a whole lot of loud fun, really.”

Coomba’s classes explore popular rhythms from Turkish, Middle Eastern and Arabic percussion styles. The classes will navigate a learning process with a focus on building familiarity with primary rhythms and, from there, performing variations and even improvisation.

To end the term with a bang, there will be a group performance by the students to showcase what they’ve learnt.

For bookings and enquiries, contact Ian Watson via email at drumanddance.bookings@gmail.com or mobile on 0431239534.

By Elysia Cook