Bhangra and Dhol Drum Workshops

Dhol Drum Workshops

During these exciting workshops, we aim to introduce rhythm awareness and ensemble skills through the teaching of rhythm-based music – principally through the traditional music of Punjab. The Dhol drum is played using two wooden sticks, usually made out of bamboo and cane wood. The stick used to play the bass side of the instrument, known as the Dagga in Punjabi, is thick (roughly about 10 mm in diameter) and is bent in a quarter-circular arc on the end that strikes the instrument. The other stick, known as Thilli, is much thinner and flexible and used to play the higher note end of the instrument.

Using authentic Dhol Drums, students of all ages and standards can explore this exciting style of drumming, to perform a variety of styles and rhythms. Working in groups the students can develop team skills, musical appreciation, history of rhythm, cultural awareness, concentration skills and focus.

Bhangra Dance Workshops

Bhangra dance is a traditional form of dance and music, which originates from Northern India, in a state called Punjab. It was initially used as a celebratory folk dance, which heralded the coming of spring and as a part of harvest festival celebrations, or Vaisakhi, as it is known. All Bhangra dancers come fully costumed and choreographed and we have many different themes available.

In a school based environment, the music and dance can be combined and taught within a broader context – as a supplement to the teaching of world music, as a collaboration between music and dance, and as a large scale example of group music making.

Dhol Drum Workshop Breakdown

• INTRODUCTION & BACKGROUND OF DHOL DRUM
• GOALS OF THE WORKSHOP
• INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO HOLD BEATERS (STICKS)
• EXPLANATION OF RHYTHMS/NOTES
• INTRODUCTION & DEMONSTRATION OF BASIC RHYTHMS
• GROUP SPLIT INTO PAIRS, EACH PAIR ASSIGNED TO ONE DRUM
• EXERCISE OF BASIC RHYTHMS FOR STUDENTS TO ATTEMPT
• INTRODUCE NEW RHYTHMS
• PAIRS TO CARRY OUT THE EXERCISE OF PLAYING THE SECOND SET OF RHYTHMS
• FINISH WITH GROUP/PAIR PERFORMANCE OF RHYTHMS LEARNT