amaAmbush Marimba Course in Rondebosch, Cape Town

amaAmbush will be running their annual Marimba Course from 7 to 12 July 2012. This course is open to any person of any age who would like to learn to play the African marimba and djembe drum. Prior music instruction is not required to play these energising African instruments. The full Marimba Course will also train participants to be Marimba Teachers.

The course will teach you marimba playing techniques, the history of the African marimba, traditional songs, performing techniques, drumming techniques, improvisation, the use of energy in playing and much more. You will get the opportunity to experience what its like to play as part of a marimba band in a relaxed and fun environment.

The lecturers are given by Ross Johnson, who has lectured in South Africa, Malaysia, Argentina and the USA, as well as a number of guest lecturers.

The course is divided into 3 modules:
• Basic Playing Module
• Advanced Playing Module
• Teaching Module

The Basic Playing Module of the course consists of 2 full days of African music tuition. By the end of this module, you will be able to play many African songs on the bass, tenor and soprano marimbas, and will also be able to play traditional drumming rhythms.

The Advanced Playing Module of the course consists of a further 2 days of tuition. It expands on material covered in the previous module, and introduces elements such as improvisation, arranging for marimba bands and playing advanced marimba songs.

The Basic Playing Module must be completed in order to progress to the Advanced Playing Module

For those interested in teaching, there is also a 2 day Teaching Module where potential teachers learn the amaAmbush Teaching Method. This module will equip participants with the knowledge to start teaching their own marimba bands. The Basic and Advanced Playing Modules are prerequisites for the Teaching Module and must be completed in order to advance to the Teaching Module. Further songs, techniques and support will be available to marimba teachers through our online resource.

Come and experience raw African energy and get in touch with your African roots!

Venue: To be confirmed

For more information on the costs involved and registration
Contact: amaAmbush on +27 (0)21 671-6076