Drumming

Folk music is something of the blood, a substance that runs down the streets and footpaths of all the world’s people, providing identity, celebration, ritual, and remembrance. As we in America celebrate our roots in a Euro-American sense, let us not forget our shared history with Africa, her rhythm and people. Many old-time and current forms of music appreciated on our continent have a bit or more of the funky rhythmical spices from the Motherland.

African drumming and dancing is often seen as a “primal” musical sensibility. This is true, but it sells short the vast and intricate depth of rhythmical contributions that African people have shared with the world. Just as Europe and America have developed, redeveloped, and exploded the fascinating realms of harmony and melody, so has Africa with rhythm.

Festival attendees may drum at their campsites but must follow the existing guidelines for tolerance, quiet time and the basic festival rule of "Respect Your Neighbor".

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