Giving back to Guinea
Motivation
In 2002, I had the great opportunity to change my life and open my heart. Traveling to Africa was about the farthest thing from my mind, but a friend convinced me that I could do it. In December 2002, we landed in Conakry. It all happened so fast!
I am a musician and have played percussion since the age of 4. Having studied at our nations top conservatories and teaching music and all forms of percussion, here I was waking up in Cosa, a village not far from the Guinean capital. Not knowing that video was not alowed, I recorded that day of our first drumming class with the reknowed master djembefola, Famoudou Konaté while he introduced us to his music and the music of Guinea. It was an unbelievable moment for all 25 students who were attending. It was awesome!
To really learn the djembe and the dunun drums and the music of the Malinké, Fulani and Sousou you simply must open your heart as well as your ears. You must quiet the mind and ‘grow’ the ears. You watch, you copy, you keep trying and believe you can do this! And you can.
All the while, there are very poor people everywhere. Millions of children without enough food, clothes... no electricity, no healthcare and a smattering of hospitals that turn them away because they can’t pay. Sometimes the hospitals themselves are not clean and it's better not to go. They often don’t even seek out the hospital care. They have their African medicine that is very powerful, as well. But sometimes a western schooled doctor seems to be needed. Medicines are needed for a simple headache to more conplicated conditions as malaria. The costs are not a lot but if nobody has money, they cannot get the medicine and they will suffer and sometimes, manytimes ...die.
The Guinea Fund
The Inception
The Guinea Fund was set up in October 2006 in preparation for my trip to Guinea in the winter of 2007.
I travel to Guinea once a year in order to study the music of drumming with Famoudou Konaté and other master drummers, dancers and griots. On a previous trip to Guinea in 2003/2004, I saw signs of deterioration in the conditions of what you might call the "lower-middle class" segment of the population. Those impressions hit me as I stepped off the plane at the Conakry Airport. The more people I met, the sadder the faces were and my sense of white, western shame increased.
I was very, very saddened by what I saw, but saw no way to help improve the situation. I just helped people as I could. Then, in 2005 I got an opportunity and took action in helping a family in Guinea. A friend of mine who was very sick spent 3 weeks in a hospital with no way to get out because her family did not have enough money. So I paid the bill and she survived, and the family was grateful. That was an eye-opening experience for me.
I had never given that kind of monetary assistance before. I saw how much that money changed things for the whole family, and became inspired to try to do more for them and for other families in need.
The only 'costly' thing I had done before that was to help my new freind and master drummer, Sayon Camara, who came to me with a problem. He needed to put a door on a house he was trying to live in but just didn't have a way to get this door. So I helped him buy a metal door and have it installed. In a much needed move, he made the switch to his newer place and was able to sleep well. When you help an African with money, they often show you they did what they said they were going to do with it and Sayon brought me to the house to see. It was very clean and moderate and he was very proud. He was also sad that I had to give money but I certainly did not see it that way. He was a wonderful man whom I didn't exepect to ever forget. Funny, over 10 years later Sayon reminded me of this good deed and I remembered it like it was yesterday.
As I planned for my next trip, I decided that I would begin a small venture to help Guinean people in need. Alone, I could only do so much and help only a few people. But with the generous support of others, I could help many more people. My plan included the collection of medications, clothes and money. Money is a key ingredient in helping people in desperate situations. I also talked a lot of my ideas for the venture through with local Boston area physicians, including a psychiatrist and a few general physicians. I am not a physician, my father was. But I learned a lot about physical, mental and spiritual healing growing up. I put all of this to use during this past trip to Guinea.
What does it do, how does it work?
After the first year it became clear that I could not bear that responsibility and pay my own bills at home in the US. I modified the position of The Guinea Fund to be a crisis fund. When our network on the ground tells me that someone might die, especially the young children, we wire enough funds to care for that person. One person at a time. We get a lot of requests but have learned how to select the requests that are going to make the biggest difference. We have to, or we would not be able to help anyone. We continue this effort today. All profits from DrumConnection Drum Circles, go directly into the fund.
How we do what we do.
Every year I take students who are interested in the music of the drums to Guinea for a complete immersion in the music, the language and the cuturre of Guinea. We travel in November at the tail-end of the rainy season and stay into December. Hiring the drum, dance, balafon, and Fula flute teachers as well as the cook and the assistants is the fun part as I know they and their families will be apart of our life for the next 3-4 weeks.
Organizing the trip is easy now that I’ve been there so many times. I have seen what works and what doesn’t. We take clues from the past trips and other people’s trips and make one heck of a great experience for our studnets. There is nothing like it.
One way that our trips are a little different from others is that we all live with a family, my Guinean family, in Cosa. While we have rules in place for the attendees, we allow for a lot of freedom when Guinea is tranquil. So, you are not segregted from the Guineans. You do as they do. We eat together, talk together, laugh and tell jokes a lot. We cry together when it is time to leave.
The music, dance, songs and drums of Guinea
Drumming and dancing the traditional rhythms and dances of Guinea is a profound vessel for change. Not only are you stretched to the limits of your mind and body, but you are tapping into centuries old music and dance forms that ellicit healling and calm after a day of crazy, fun excitement. There is nothing like it anywhere.
To keep the African sprirt alive in our conciousness and change the lives of our travelers; taking the Trip To Africa will ultimately changing the course of music worldwide.
We believe that... by educating many people on these trips with DrumConnection we can do what was asked of us by the ancient ones and those who have now passed. To keep the music and the spirit of Africa alive and preserve it’s fragile surviveable nature.
On these trips, we do more than that. We lift Africa up and say, you are beautiful, you are intense, you are a part of who we are and we will never forget you. Long live Guinea and long live Africa!
DrumConnection 177 Massachusetts Ave. Arlington, MA 02474 ph: (001) 781-316-8068
Customer Reviews
Actual Reviews
2/26/17
5.0 star rating Yelp!
This place should be called, "percussion heaven". You can find every sort of percussion instrument and accessory here, all in one place. The staff is very friendly, knowledgable and helpful. They have professional djembes and dunun . They also sponsor local drum circles and have drum classes with the very talented owner as well as master drummers from around the globe. They also offer a wide variety of CD's. One of the best shops ever!
Michael P.
San Rafael, CA
2/9/2017
5.0 star rating
L R.
Medford, MA
5.0 star rating 2/9/2017
I was thrilled to find that this store doesn't just have hand drums, but is also well-stocked with hardware and parts for rock drum kits. And if they don't stock something you need, they'll order it for you or point you in the right direction.
Alan, the owner, is extremely knowledgeable and helpful if I have questions or need advice. When I came in last year wanting to restore my vintage kit, I had no idea where to start, and Alan helped me through the entire process, from cleaning, de-rusting, to finding missing parts. Whenever I have a problem with my kit or something breaks, I always go to Alan first (it's a good idea to call the store to see when he's working!) Often he'll find a way to fix it without having to purchase new parts.
Definitely recommend this gem over bigger places like Guitar Center.
L R.
Medford, MA
5.0 star rating
Jan 22, 2017
"Hi Alan, Eddie & I LOVED Nancy's classes. We stopped going because it was dark & cold & late & it was the only time we could both make it ( I work nites ) but we plan to resume classes probably in the spring. I miss it. Rochelle"
R.W.
8/16/2016
5.0 star rating
Purchased beautiful instruments...
I recommend the workshops to all my college student studying world music in the classroom. We've also purchased beautiful instruments I use in my teaching. People marvel at their sound and touch.
Janet W.
Belmont, MA
7/18/2016
5.0 star rating
So much fun...
Participating in a beginners drumming series was so much fun, and I was surprised at what they were able to teach us! We plan to go back as soon as our schedule allow a steady attendance.
Gail C.
Watertown, MA
7/8/2016
5.0 star rating
Great Community...
Just bought my 3rd instrument from this store. Always a pleasure to do business with DrumConnection, and home to a great community of drummers.
Brad B.
Somerville, MA
7/8/2016
5.0 star rating
Honest, original voice...
Way back in 2011, I wrote and published a feature story about Alan Tauber and DrumConnection. Read it at YourArlington
Nothing that has occurred since would cause me to change my mind about Alan and his business: He's an honest, original voice in a fast-changing town, offering a rhythm that is hard to beat.
Bob S.
Arlington, MA
6/20/2016
5.0 star rating
Always a great experience...
Alan is always a pleasure to do business with. He is knowledgeable and very kind. The classes they have are fun and very informative. Always a great experience.
Keirstin P.
Redington Beach, FL
6/23/16
Alan's knowledge is vast...
I needed to replace the head on a djembe. I live on the south shore of MA, and was having a hard time finding a place to do the job. I discovered the DrumConnection through a list serve and found the best resource I could hope for. Alan's knowledge is vast, and the service was done professionally, on time, and at a reasonable price. I do not need to look any further for my hand drumming needs.
Dave Y.
5/27/16
It is a privilege to know you...
You play such an important part in drumming education in this country. It is a privilege to know you...
Name withheld upon request.
(but a famous dude in percussion).
5/26/2016
Great Local Place, Great Stuff, Nice People
Bought a present for a friend and they had just what I wanted. They helped me pick the right one. Weren't pushy. Really nice vibe. Will definitely go back when I need a drum or a present for someone.
Alec M.
5/16/2016 5.0 stars! Yelp!
DrumConnection is great! Excellent teachers, extremely high quality guest drummers from Africa, and female teachers and leaders.
Betty H.
Boston, MA
5/15/2016 5.0 stars!
Thank you Alan, Thierno, Audrey, Issa and Moussa!
At DrumConnection, I began my beginners' class feeling lost and insecure. However, while the drum is quite challenging, I have felt more and more connected to the group thanks to the wonderful teachers, and the kindness and acceptance of other drummers.
In other words I am deeply indebted and grateful for the opportunity to expand my skills, horizons, and sense of belonging thanks to the drum. The ongoing learning experience is challenging, exhilarating and humbling. Thank you Alan, Thierno, Audrey, Issa and Moussa, and thank you to all my fellow students!
Annemarie D-D
5/13/2016 5.0 stars!
Thanks so much. Tuned up my kids drum, very knowledgeable and friendly!
Aaron C
4/28/2016 5.0 stars!
Love DrumConnection in Arlington!
Great teachers including the Masters from West Africa; great drums (all kinds) and accessories. Director and owner, Alan, is an excellent drummer himself, friends to all and always willing to share his knowledge. Classes & Workshops at all levels challenging and tons of fun. Serious drumming going on here!
M. S.
Brighton, MA
4/27/2016 5.0 stars!
Knowledgeable, and very helpful.
I watched Alan help a gentleman trying to rent an accordion. Yes, this sounds like a Seinfeld script, but it was touching seeing Alan help someone out. Additionally, the store is well supplied, and the prices are quote reasonable for being able to get your hands on what you need right now. Truly, an asset to the community!
Brian C. J.
Arlington, MA
April 9, 2016, 1:47 p.m.
Great drum....
Friends cannot believe how light it is and how good it sounds. Easy for me to carry. It is also very nice looking, not ornate, just beautiful wooden swirls. Thanks for all your help on this..... kdl
KD
4/10/16 ; 5 Stars
I have spent several wonderful weekends at DrumConnection studying drumming rhythms with various master drummers (djembefolas) and I just want to thank Alan and the wonderful community of people I met at there for a wonderful, fun, inspiring and informative time. If I didn't live on Long Island, NY I would be there every week. 5 star rating from me!
Rosie
Long Island, NY
2/24/2016 : 5 Stars!
DrumConnection is a wonderful place. Alan is so helpful, thoughtful and kind. The store has a great selection of drums that will help you connect to music from all over the world. Highly recommended!
R. C.
Boston, MA
Jan. 16, 2016 : 5 Stars!
No Pressure
Great experience, no pressure to buy or spend more than I wanted to, just the perfect assistance to help me find the right drum for me - a clear joy for drumming and very welcoming - made me feel right at home.
J. Morley
12/22/2015 : 5 Stars!
A great little store
I was looking for some nifty percussion accessories for my son-in-law and I really didn't want to go the the Guitar Center. What a great place! I got great advice & was able to find exactly the kind of stuff I was looking for! A perfect shopping trip & well worth the weekly trip down from Cape Ann!
L. Carsman
Cape Ann, MA
5.0 star rating 12/6/2015 Yelp!
I took a beginner drum class here this fall. I was impressed by the business's connection to West African drumming. Thierno, a drummer from Guinea, was our teacher. If you want to learn drumming, have a weekly class with lots of laughing and meet people from around the world this place is for you.
S K.
Cambridge, MA
5.0 Star Rating 12/4/15 Google+
Alan the owner is always friendly and helpful. When I was looking for a drum, he chose 4 drums he thought I might like, each unique. He helped me sort out the differences to find the combination of pluses that added up to the perfect drum for me.
Alan the teacher is a non-judgmental, supportive, and clear instructor whose decades of experience and amazing skill as a drummer combine to provide a safe and inspiring learning environment. I've studied with four other DrumConnection instructors and each is excellent in his or her own ways, and all certified by examination.
A great store and a wonderful school. I recommend it without reservations.
C.
11/15/2015 5.0 Yelp!
The beginner drum class was extra special. Taught by Thierno Keita-what a wonderful escape each week from the work-a-day world into a world of rhythm and movement. Great for the brain and the soul. Alan Tauber, who runs the Drum Connection could not be kinder or more devoted to his art. This has been a postive turn for me and I will continue on this road with pleasure.
5.0 star rating 11/11/2015
DrumConnection is an nook of musical magic on Mass Ave in Arlington. The drumming teachers are from Africa, they sponsor workshops and trips to Africa to learn drumming. Alan the owner is very flexible and understanding with scheduling lessons. The drum selection is fantastic!! I recommend it to everyone I know. What a gem!
M. Thompson
5.0 star rating 11/9/2015 Yelp!
Broad selection of percussion instruments from all over the world. Alan, the owner, really knows a lot about the instruments and the music they make.
Lane D.
Kingston, MA
5.0 star rating 11/7/2015 Yelp!
We have purchased many instruments from Alan. He knows so much about percussion instruments that we trust him with ordering sight unseen and have been pleased with our purchases. Prices are very reasonable. We drive 2 hours each way to shop at the Drum Connection and it is worth it.
Sandra T.
Mashpee, MA
5.0 star rating 11/6/2015 Yelp!
You will not find a more beautiful person than Alan to assit you with your journey of learning the drums. I have traveled with Alan to Guinea, purchased various drums, and attended numerous classes. Have not been able to find the joy I felt when I was involved with the Drum Connection. Please open a southern location!
Cheryl S.
Estero, FL
5.0 star rating 10/5/2015 Yelp!
The drum I purchased from Alan several years ago is both beautiful and is a joy to use. The classes are fantastic -- designed for all skills levels and taught by master teachers that are knowledgeable and exciting.
They are patient and know how to break rhythms down to bite size. I have enrolled my 4 year old in the children's drum class and it is dynamic -- teaching movement and African songs. She loves it and loves her teachers."
Louis K.
Arlington, MA
5.0 star rating 10/19/2015 Yelp!
The Best! Thanks!
Purchased my djembe here a few years ago, just bought new skin, Alan and staff always knowledgeable and helpful.
Paul W.
Swampscott, MA
5.0 star rating 8/29/2015 Yelp!
I am new to drumming and am having a ball. I went to a Sunday night lecture and lesson on one type of drums and followed that with 2 Sunday night drumming circles with an excellent teacher-but not at the rank beginner level. Still, I loved it and just tried to follow and keep up.
Now I am in a beginner class and I am still enjoying every minute. Alan is a kind and welcoming person. He coordinates to bring in a variety of excellent teachers and classes take place most every day of the week. He gives great advice about what to purchase and has rentals available. Come join the fun!
C.S.
Lexington, MA
5.0 star rating 8/24/2015 Yelp!
This is a great little shop. Alan was able to rent me some drums for my autism caregivers retreat and was very accommodating. The drums were gorgeous, beautiful sound. Our group had a great time thanks to Drum Connection coming through at the last minute for me. Thank you!
Tami D.
Corona, CA
June 25, 2015
5.0 star rating Excellent Teaching!
This is the first time I took drum lessons. I have taken piano lessons off and on for years. I really enjoy playing the drums. I had two teachers. They both had their individual style of teaching. I found that Alan is an excellent teacher. I would recommend anyone with a desire to learn drumming to check out DrumConnection. I haven't gone to their drum circle yet, but that's the next step for me. I am finishing up my first six weeks of classes, two more classes to go.
August 4, 2015
5.0 star rating 8/4/2015 Yelp!
I'm new to the djembe and drum circles in general. The drum circle I attended last week was a blast. Very relaxed and friendly, the drumming was amazing. Alan and Fanta were both very warm and welcoming. As others have noted, great energy. I'm definitely going back.
July 6, 2015
5.0 star rating Incredible Drums!
I returned to the store today to purchase my first djembe. Alan was more than helpful. He gave a mini-lesson on the spot so I would know how to evaluate the variety of drums, their tonal differences, etc. He also played several of them for me to have a better impression of what it sounds like once technique is mastered. The drum I finally settled on is incredible, love it. My wife was looking for a bodhran, and he gave demonstrations of those as well!
July 8, 2015
Way better than 5 stars!
Alan clearly loves what he is doing and it shows in the friendly, professional and deeply knowledgeable service. Way better than 5 stars.
June 10, 2015
5 Stars!
Alan was so helpful. He came highly recommended, and lived up to it. I got a wonderful drum for my nephew - have not yet given it to him, but he is going to love it.
Enid S.
April 8, 2015
Five stars all the way!
Honestly, I can't say enough good things about DrumConnection. Alan and John helped me pick out the perfect drum, and when I came in tonight, Alan talked with me for at least an hour about technique, the history of the djembe coming to America, and more. The place is warm and inviting, and the people who work there are the same. I am confident I chose the best place to start my drumming journey, and I will be back for their classes! Five stars all the way!
Amanda S.
March 7, 2015
Amazing Store.
My son is now starting drum lessons. We stopped in to purchase a drum pad and drum sticks. This is an amazing store. There is much to learn about choosing an instrument that suits you...and we were encouraged not to rush in and spend a lot of money at this stage. The store is packed with drums (mostly hand drums) and each visitor is encouraged to try out items that spark their interest. While visiting, my son tried several thumb pianos as well.
March 6, 2015
Smiling!
Fanta lead our group of 21 drummers thru two hours of song, dance, and drumming. Everybody was smiling at the end of the evening. What a deal for 10 bucks!
Charles D.
February 24, 2015
Fantastic Place
Drum Connection is a fantastic place to take African drumming lessons, meet some wonderful people and really expand your horizons by attending workshops with master drummers from West Africa. It's been a life changing experience for me. I am so blessed to part of Alan and Fanta's community.
Tom B.
February 13, 20115
Personal Results
As always Alan was right there to make sure I got exactly what I was looking for. He even sent me a photo/text to confirm that he had the correct size, shape and sound of rattle I needed. This was that perfect combination of personal service and immediate results.
Tony V.
-
February 5, 2015
Perfect
Hey just wanted to write you a note to tell you how much I absolutely love the drum! It was the perfect choice for me. The slaps are just incredible and yet it gives good bass response. I brought it to work to play with the children and it was just such the perfect instrument. It’s just the right one for me and I'm really thrilled with it. Thanks so much.
Steve S.
-
January 24, 2015
Satisfied
Thanks Alan for your undivided attention today as I purchased the replacement head for the djembe I had previously bought at DrumConnection. Could not be more satisfied!
Paul W.
-
