Cuban Percussion
Courses and workshops until spring 2009
Afro-Cuban percussion is taught in groups (up to eight participants), but you may
also opt for private lessons. We play on the traditional instruments of salsa and
the "Musica Traditional" of Cuba: the congas, timbales, bongos, guiros, maracas,
shekere (shaker), campana (bells) and claves (wooden percussion sticks) etc. (click
on the picture to get to the shop).
Private lessons (10 weeks)
One 30 min. lesson per week (10 lessons): CHF 420.-
One 45 min. lesson per week (10 lessons): CHF 630.-
Private lessons for half a year or full year
Half year (20 lessons - 45 min. per week - Sfr. 55.- per lesson):
CHF 1100.-
Full year (40 lessons - 45 min. per week - Sfr. 45.- per lesson):
CHF 1800.-
One-off lessons and trial lessons (by special arrangement)
30 min. lesson: CHF 50.- / 45 min. lesson: CHF 70.- / 60 min. lesson:
CHF 90.- / 90 min. lesson:: CHF 125.-
We arrange private lessons as well as lessons for groups at alternative times -
give us a call or e-mail us to discuss the options. For more details about prices
and teaching arrangements, see 'prices' in the navigation.
Trial workshops on Saturdays
The trial workshops are an ideal way to get to know "PercussionArts" and to get a first
insight into a particular drumming culture, including its key instruments and playing
techniques. Of course, you'll also get to play your first rhythms! Don't hesitate
to come along for a trial workshop without obligation - instruments are available
for use at these trial workshops.
Beginners - Courses and workshops
Find out about the fascinating historical background of Cuban percussion and immediately
adopt the right playing techniques and postures to get off to a good start. You'll
learn and absorb the fundamental laws of rhythms and percussion in a playful way
by walking, clapping and pronouncing the rhythm patterns.
We`ll experience the fun and excitement of the special group dynamics created by
the interweaving of traditional rhythms and arrangements! Instruments are available
for rent or purchase.
Intermediate players - Courses and workshops
On this level, you'll be able to refine your playing techniques. The focus will
be on the conga. You'll also get a chance to learn traditional rhythms, practice
playing in an ensemble (e.g. learn about collective breaks) and engage in "call
and response games".
Advanced players - Courses and workshops
These lessons are perfect for experienced players with advanced knowledge and skills.
You will be able to further refine your technique and master more difficult rhythms,
culminating in the art of individual soloing.
Salsa drumming - Workshops
In 1959, Fidel Castro came to power and the economic sanctions imposed by the USA
nearly wiped Cuba off the international scene - however, Cuba's most successful
export, its music, was to spread around the world. This occurred in the 60s due
to the efforts by Cubans in exile, in particular by Izzy Sanabria, a graphic designer
at Fania Studios. In order to avoid confusion and to sell Cuban music to the world,
he decided on an umbrella term to describe all the Cuban styles: "Salsa". At that
time, "Salsa" was the term audiences shouted to Cuban musicians to encourage them
to play in a more "fiery" and livelier way.
This one-day workshop is designed to introduce you to all rhythm instruments of
salsa music and to get you to play the most important and best-known rhythms. We
play on the traditional drums and small percussion instruments of salsa music –
the congas, timbales, bongos, campana, guiro, maracas and claves.
Don't hesitate to contact us any time by phone or e-mail if you have any further
inquiries.
