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Queen
Jill planned a unique African drumming event. She found a
wonderful teacher on the internet, Clifford Koufman (rhythms4u2@yahoo.com),
who brought a variety of drums to her clubhouse. There were five Crimson
Crones and one guest, Queen Betty Simonsen of the ChrysantheMums
chapter.
First we
had a sack lunch and visited for a while. Clifford arrived,
set up the drums, and then joined us in conversation, telling us a little
bit about himself.
Then we
created a drumming circle where Clifford taught us a variety of
drumming techniques, and we learned several African rhythms. He had
such fascinating stories to tell us, and you can see how enthralled we
were listening to his incredible life. This event was a rare
treat. We were all amazed how good we sounded, surprising ourselves
with our hidden talent.
Clifford
has been playing and teaching the drums for about 20 years. His
interest in music led him to the study of jazz and African music on drum
set and traditional West African instruments. He has spent
time in Ghana, West Africa where he traveled and learned music of
various ethnic groups. This winter he will be traveling to another
part of West Africa, Guinea, to study with master diembe
player Mamady Keita.
The photos
below were taken by Queen Jill and Queen Betty.
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