West African Drumming Workshops

Richard's History With African Drumming

“Born near Bristol, Richard (aka Rich) has been drumming for longer than he can remember, but had a total “road to Damascus” moment in the late 1990s, when he attended a djembe workshop led by Magatte Dieng, from Senegal, in Leicester. He was so inspired by Magatte’s playing that he journeyed by himself in 1999 to Essau, Gambia, to study djembe and sabar drumming with another Senegalese master, Samba Coumba Ngom.

Why West African Drumming?

West African drumming is good for you because it boosts your mood, relieves stress, and creates a powerful sense of connection through rhythm and community.

Boosts Mental Wellbeing

The rhythmic repetition of drumming helps reduce stress, release tension, and improve focus. It’s a natural way to lift your mood and promote mindfulness.

Build Connection & Community

Drumming is deeply social. It brings people together, encourages teamwork, and creates a strong sense of unity through shared rhythm and energy.

Enhances Physical Cordination

Playing African drums improves hand-eye coordination, motor skills, and body awareness—all while getting you moving and having fun!

Fun

Fun! For all ages - from Reception (4/5yr olds) to seniors (90+)!

Awareness

Raises awareness of the traditional dance drumming culture of West Africa (specifically Gambia, Senegal, and Burkina Faso)

Listening & Social Skills

Helps to develop listening and social skills 4. Raises awareness of the universal/international language of rhythm

Hands On

Provides a totally immersive “hands-on” experience (bringing up to 60 djembes!)

Visiting Africa

It was Rich' first visit to Africa literally changed his life, along with his whole outlook and direction. On his return, Rich set up the partnership Beats Working, teaching and performing traditional rhythms to initially a small number of his enthusiastic drum students, but also very soon after in schools and community groups. Another study tour to Gambia followed in 2000, again under the tutelage of Samba Ngom, but then by chance at a UK music conference he met Ken Patterson (4 Corners Music Network), who told him about Wamde, a drumming and dance troupe led by Moussougnouma (“Mama”) Kouyaté in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

Drumming Workshops

During the drumming demonstrations, lessons or workshops, Rich will provide everyone with a djembe drum and take participants through simple and more more complex rhythms.

You will be surprised at the end result and how much you enjoyed getting there!

Drum repairs

Need your djembe or African drum restored to its full power? We offer professional drum repair services, including reheading, tuning, and shell restoration. Whether your drum has a damaged skin or just needs some TLC, we’ll get it sounding vibrant and resonant again—ready to play, perform, or teach.

Fates & Fayres

Bring the magic of rhythm to your fête or fairy-themed event with the vibrant energy of West African drumming! Whether it’s a whimsical garden party or a lively community fair, our drumming workshops add a joyful, interactive experience that captivates children and adults alike. 

Words About Rich's Drumming Workshops

A wonderful experience.

Rich is brilliant.

He is welcoming and funny. I attended an event at work and signed up for an 1hr 1/2 session.

There were 15 or so of us all with an African drum (jambe?) and we played in unison in different rhythms.


Rich was professional and friendly. A great session highly recommended!
I copied the following quote from a testimonial on his website as it sums up the experience completely:

"Richard’s enthusiasm and absolute commitment to learning and teaching is simply stunning."

Thanks Rich!

Michael Luder

Rich Rhythms Was Born

He applied for funding for a project (On The Line – Millennium Awards) linking Burkina Faso with the UK, and much to his surprise his application was successful, and so in 2001 made the first of what would turn out to be four annual solo “expeditions” to study traditional djembe drumming under Salifou Ouedraogo at Wamde. In 2004, he left the Beats Working partnership and moved to Margate, where he set up on his own as Rich Rhythms, continuing to teach and perform djembe and sabar drumming in all manner of educational and community settings, and also playing congas alongside DJs at club events.”

Connect with Rich

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