Trip To Oroko, Guinea Africa!
JAN 15 - FEB 13, 2023
January 15, 2023 to February 13, 2023
Join us for the trip of a lifetime, study djembe and dunun drumming in Africa with Masters of the craft. A true cultural and musical immersion in Malinké music. An unforgettable journey to the birthplace of the djembe! In this solid 3 week trip you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the music and culture of Oroko, Guinea.
Study drum and dance, attend festivals and celebrations, learn about the country and its people and discover the magic that IS Africa! Also, the tambin, the beautiful African flute.
Former Travelers' Accolades
“I just read the follow-up email you wrote Alan. I can’t thank you enough for this incredible experience. I am amazed at how much I learned and not just on djembe. But, for me, it was about the people of Africa. They made me a brother and we became very close. Thanks for changing my life!!”
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“It amazes me that we became part of a family within a day and were so welcomed. For me, for the first time in my life, I felt at home. The instruction in all the instruments was fantastic and the teachers were extraordinary. Thank you for making this at all possible. It was, as you said, life changing!”
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“Thank you Alan, Your great work continues to inspire, even in the face of violence and war--ESPECIALLY in the face of the darkness. Blessings to you and Fanta -- may DrumConnection grow and spread the beauty of African drumming far and wide! I hope to travel with you once again this coming year on these great trips.”
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"I have only studied with Famoudou for a week in the United States a few years ago and have been hoping to travel to Guinea to study with him in his home. I am so excited to see this trip posted. I am signing up right now!"
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While we will be drumming quite a bit we will also experience traditional West African dance and experience the connection to The Motherland. Through this experience, we will grow as musicians and experience profound personal changes as we develop and explore our new relationships with our teachers, friends and the environment.
TRIP COST
- Full Guinean Trip 2023: only $2,500.-; January 15, 2023 - February 13, 2023
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(not including airfare) We help you find best flight prices....!
You will be able to buy jewelry & fabric & visit tailors to have clothes made for you, your friends and family and even your complete performance troupe!
Some nights you will enjoy candlelight when there is no electricity. You will see the Moon and Stars like never before as we are very near the equator. The days are warm and it usually cools down a little at night.
When you register, you will receive detailed advice and support on what to bring in a comprehensive list that will be provided in a few emails. We can also send by post, if necessary.
In memory of my good friend Rainer Dorer, friend to Famoudou and a man you should know about. The kindest organizer of Famoudou Workshops and caring man who passed much to early in life. I miss you Rainer :(
YOUR HOST
Mamady Kourouma, Oroko, Guinea will be your host.
Wadaba will be available to you for any of your wishes or concerns from the time you pack your bags to the day we come home once again. We will make your stay very enjoyable and be able to tailor a workshop that will meet your needs.
Please send us an email as soon as possible to let us know of your interest in this tour. There are some meetings (optional) that give you a great idea of what to expect and how to prepare. Upon request, we will email you a registration form to get you started.
FOOD
The food will be traditional African fare based on rice with a variety of sauces or traditional fare. You may enjoy chicken, beef, goat and lots of fresh fish. There are always fresh vegetables and delicious fresh fruit. Vegetarian meals will always be available for you. Food will be prepared in the village. The cooking goes on ALL day! If you like it spicy, we do spicy hot! Or tame, if you must.
There is always bottled water available for purchase, highly recommended and necessary for your health. Many surprises too!
Classes in Djembe and Dunun and Dance will be 4-5 days a week. Many afternoons we will have dance classes as people wish. You may focus on dance or drum or both. Drum Classes will include proper tone production, feel, relaxation, speed, rolls, solos, traditional rhythms, songs and the cultural context of the rhythms; All Village Style under the supervision of Wadaba!
RELAXATION DAYS
Every 3-4 days we will have the next day OFF. These OFF days may be perfect for further musical study with a specialist in the instrument you love or perfect for a vacation day.
COSTS
The price of this year's trip includes:
• Transport on the ground from the airport in Guinea.
• Lodging, based on double occupancy or single may be available.
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner prepared exqusitly local chefs to your liking.
• Drumming classes 4-5 days a week, dancing, and language classes arranged by request.
• Transport to and from the Airport.
TUITION & DEPOSIT
Plan to bring spending money for expenses not covered and purchases you may make during your stay. A $500.- deposit is required to secure your spot on the trip. Deposits must be received by cash, check or Venmo, by December 24, 2022.
Management Contact : Alan Tauber alan@drumconnection.com or 617-686-6080
DrumConnection Trip to Guinea 2014 with Mamady Kourouma, Instructor and students.
NOT INCLUDED IN PRICE (but not much more)
Food when we are away from the village is slightly extra. Probable side trips in taxis and the like and your airfare is not included in the price. Airfare is from $999 RT to $1650 RT depending on where you are departing from. The cost of obtaining a passport and visa are not included in the tuition.
All the above ‘not includeds’ are not much more cost. Pocket change.
Most importantly we will give you all the information you need in easy to do steps that make this trip doable!
NECESSARY PRE-TRIP TASKS
•You must get your documents in order. We will help with all of it.
•You must have a passport and a visa to enter Guinea.
•Yellow Fever vaccination is required. We recommend consulting a travel clinic in your country.
•Anti-Malarial medication is also required. (Many choices are available)
•Other vaccines may be warranted. You MUST speak with your PCP or a travel clinic at your local hospital. We do not want anyone to get sick because they didn't get the best advice here in the US or Canada. Important to avail yourself of the services of a Travel Clinic associated with a hospital.
WEATHER INFO
The weather conditions in Guinea are beautiful but hot. The days are warm (hot) and sunny and the nights are much cooler but prepare for warm conditions. Details will be sent to registrants to help you plan your trip. We will actually speak with all of you who have your deposits in by December 24, 2022; or before. Please give us your contact info so we can initiate a conversation and answer any questions you may have.
Please call or text us @ 781-316-8068 as soon as you know you will travel with us to Guinea.
ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES
You must arrive on our start date and leave the last day of the workshop. If you need flexibility with dates we can assist you. If you wish to stay on for a longer period of time, arrangements can easily be made.
STAYING ON
If you are so enthralled with Africa and would like to stay for a longer time, the cost will be minimal which includes your food and lodging. You can arrange lessons in drum, dance, other instruments or just enjoy some down time with your new friends there.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please email us info@drumconnection.com or call us at 781-316-8068 (country code 001)
By US Mail:
DrumConnection
PO Box 293
Wayland, MA 01778 USA
Travel with us to Guinea . . . You will never be the same.
...I was amazed at the conversations I had with co-workers from Africa about family life, respect, and the difference between our cultures. Before I went to Africa the conversations alone
changed my views of my own race. After I went to Africa.....It changed my life!
from a drummer on her first trip to Africa.
Parking • Hours • Contact • Directions
DrumConnection
ph: 617-686-6080
Customer Reviews
Actual Customer Reviews - 1990 to 2023
Average Rating: 5 Stars
DrumConnection
2022
Karen G.
I just bought my djembe from Alan yesterday so I'm really excited to play it again after the rain stops. (I like to play outside). I researched many places all across the US and tried Amazon and djembe makers in Pakistan. I found out that the sound of the djembe is 'boingy' if it wasn't carved in Africa. (My first 2 were from Pakistan though Amazon and another company didn't want to tell me that!) Anyway, huge difference to get a dry, solid African sounding djembe. Thank you!
Sara F.
I had my djembe re-headed with a goat skin by DrumConnection and it never sounded anything like this! I can't stop playing it. I didn't know so much of the value of a djembe was in how it was made with all the ropes and tensioning and a super high quality skin, tuned perfectly. I really can't stop playing my 'new' djembe :) Just to add that I wasn't a very good player before but now I play so much and so easily, I am so happy with this! Thanks Alan!
Doris G.
I was so impressed with the prompt delivery of a beautiful djembe to on of my teachers of spiritual mindfulness; he LOVED it! They selected the best djembe they had and shipped it to me in 2 days. It was a huge hit with my teacher. They also supplied us with all the care of the djembe tip sheet and how to tune the djembe video, which is very helpful. Good communication and perfect follow-thru.
Marcia F.
I recently purchased a djembe drum from DrumConnection and am now taking lessons with him. He was so incredibly helpful and knowledgeable about the drums and taught me things I never knew I never knew about buying a drum. His classes are fun and engaging and he goes above and beyond the call of duty in helping us to learn and know about the history and origins of this sort of drumming, It has been in great addition to life particularly during Covid.
2021
Mark W.
Excellent and knowledgeable instructors, classes that balance learning rhythms and technique accurately and having fun playing together, great people and community! Alan Tauber is an experienced teacher and drummer who has learned from the best players and djembe masters on the planet, and is happy to share his knowledge with students. I recommend Alan and DrumConnection highly!
Adam J. M.
When my son, who is now at Berklee, was in grammar school he studied djembe with Alan and I was so impressed with Alan’s kind and fun manner of presenting complex rhythms. I later studied conga with Alan and one of his top notch teachers. The material was challenging but so satisfying. We also own a beautiful djembe we got from Alan. I highly recommend him as a teacher.
Terri M.
Learning the Drum at The Drum Connection is the best and most genuine experience around. I highly recommend The Drum Connection to anyone who is interested in learning how to play the African drum and all it has to offer.
Dalena T.
I bought an insanely beautiful, well-crafted, high quality djembe off Alan a couple months ago. It took me about two hours to finalize my decision but he never once rushed me. Felt like I was just chilling with an old pal. Made me laugh a lot! He’s got an off-beat but refreshing sense of humor. To top it off he also gave me a WONDERFUL deal on the drum! I also began taking classes with him, he’s fun, engaging, and so lighthearted! Throughout the class he makes sure everyone is on the same page.. And he KNOWS HIS STUFF. Thank you Alan for all you do and provide. Can’t recommend him highly enough.
Joshua M.
I have taken lots of classes with Drum Connection teachers and Alan Tauber. His classes are always fun and I have learned a lot about playing Djembe and the traditions and melodies surrounding the instrument. In addition to his own classes, I have taken classes and workshops with other teachers he brings in occasionally - they are always great. And just as important, his students are always supportive of one another - the general feeling is that everyone was a beginner once and everyone helps each other if they can.
2020
Paula P.
I was welcomed with open arms, and having only touched a drum once before, had no idea what to do. I walked in off the street and immediately John Tracy sat with me and taught me a simple rhythm. I ended up taking a series of lessons with Alan Tauber, and joining a number of drum circles. I loved being welcomed into the community .. to this day, I drum with people from the DrumConnection. The gentle and experienced people there are enthusiastically committed to teaching all levels of drumming.
Jenna M.
Alan’s enthusiasm for drum playing is infectious! He shares his warm heart, patience, and talents with all students.
Lisa K.
Coming in as a novice, it could have been intimidating. It was the opposite! Warm and welcoming! Alan has such patience and skill in helping me get to the next stage in drumming! Such a blast doing outdoor classes! And always enjoyed the camaraderie with my fellow students.
I went for my first drumming class yesterday. Alan and Nancy met me with a big smile and created such a loving and caring atmosphere making me feel really comfortable and accepted. I have no musical experience and was really worried of how the class would flow. They were just amazing. I don't have enough words to express how magical the class was. I can't wait to go back and I have been telling all my friends about drumming. It's the best therapy for your mind and soul!!!
Magda D.
Ashland, MA
Sarah Tenney of Marimba Magic (R) at The Rivers School Conservatory recommends us! Thank you.
2019
"The Drum Connection has brought the joy of drumming to many hundreds of people through excellent classes. Alan is very knowledgeable about African drumming and he has reached deeply into the whole Boston area spreading his passion through many communities. I recommend his classes and drum circles."
Nancy Browne recommends DrumConnection
This is a great class taught by remarkable drummer and gifted teacher, Alan Tauber! It’s something I just want to share with everyone, so much fun and such a wonderful way to connect with other people in a deep, uplifting musical way. You will feel supported and uplifted at the same time as you learn to play the hand drums with others who learn and play along with you! A very, very special experience awaits all who take this class. You will not be disappointed. If I could, I would give this class as a gift to everyone I know!
Celtic Revival
Medford MA
"Drum Connection has been an amazing source of drum culture as well as lessons and community for many years. From hand percussion to events and travel, Drum Connection has reached (thousands?) over the years."
Dr. Barry Taylor, N.D.
Weston MA • 10.8 mi away • Medical Center
"If you want to learn drumming, Alan is the man to call."
The Spiral Path
Topsfield MA • Alternative & Holistic Health Service
"Great teacher. Has depth of knowledge about drumming and is passionate about sharing it with others."
Dr Margaret Rogers Van Coops
Lake Havasu City AZ • Medical & Health
"The rhythm of music is key to cleansing the body of negativity. Everyone should attend this kind of class to dump negative history. I recommend contacting Alan who is caring and nurturing."
Wellesley MA • 11.5 mi away
"kind, patient and totally passionate about his work and his students growth"
Waste to Energy Machines
Boston MA
"Progressive Drum Shop"
McCabe Abstracts
Brighton MA • Fine Art
"Alan is a great teacher and Networker!"
Live Fully with ADHD
Jamaica Plain MA • Coach
"Alan is a great teacher and has trained a terrific staff. And he's a really nice guy. Sells some good drums, too."
EV Custom Massage
Arlington MA
"I highly recommend DrumConnection. Alan is very knowledgeable in many areas of drumming, and can assist anyone from the first time novice to the skilled professional. DrumConnection has a wide array of drums that you can try for a perfect fit."
Kennard Music, LLC
Dayton OH • Entertainers, Actors, & Directors
"Drums and wisdom. 👍🏻😎"
Hub Health & Wellness Center
Jamaica Plain MA • 8.1 mi away • Alternative & Holistic Health Service
"The best djembe place in Boston"
Something Savory - Catering and Events
Arlington MA • 1.5 mi away • Caterer
"Great classes, wonderful people!"
Clearsight
Malibu CA • Meditation Center
"Drums have always been a path for me to express my soul and the beat of my life. DrumConnection has a fabulous variety of all kinds of drums that can add to your enjoyment or musical expertise. Just a wonderful place to purchase a drum from."
Royale Business Club International Inc
Surrey BC
"They are in the same business as we are but a long way away. Doing a great job at their craft."
Medford MA • Performance & Event Venue
"Excellent place!"
Kneeland & Kydd
Arlington MA • 1.0 mi away
"It is a really cool store in a fun shopping area if you are looking for drums a great place to start"
Drum Teacher / Freelance Musician
Belmont MA • 3.2 mi away
"Alan & DrumConnection are a cornerstone to the hand-drumming and "world-beat rhythms" community. Alan has been sharing his authentic knowledge here for decades. I wholeheartedly recommend Alan & DrumConnection!"
Lifeworks Career & Life Design / Grafton Street Writing Center
Arlington MA • 1.2 mi away
"Knowledgeable devoted and fun"
Drumming Preparatory School
Arlington MA • 1.0 mi away • Performing Arts
"Alan is one fine human being! He already has most of the answers and knows where to find the rest."
Universal Drums: Music Therapy, Lessons & African Arts!
Wakefield MA
"DrumConnection in Arlington offers fabulous services in African Arts! :)"
2018
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
5.0 star rating
L R.
Medford, MA
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
"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.
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
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
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
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
5.0 star rating
Always a great experience...
Alan is always a pleasure to do business with. He is knowledgable and very kind. The classes they have are fun and very informative. Always a great experience.
Keirstin P.
Redington Beach, FL
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.
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).
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.
5.0 stars! Yelp!
DrumConnection is great! Excellent teachers, extremely high quality guest drummers from Africa, and female teachers and leaders.
Betty H.
Boston, MA
5.0 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
5.0 stars!
Thanks so much. Tuned up my kids drum, very knowledgeable and friendly!
Aaron C
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 on 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
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.
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
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
-
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.
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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.
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