The African Balafon
After the discovery of iron and its uses 2,500 year ago, the social organization of African society changed. Many of the inhabitants, who had been nomads since time out of mind, became sedentary. Castes formed, and among them the blacksmith was found at the centre of all craft activities and became powerful. Without him there would be no weapons for hunting, nor farming implements, nor cooking utensils. He was master of fire and wood.
Traditionally, it was he who sculpted the shell of the djembe, or the slats of the balafon. The balafola's gesture is the same as the blacksmith's. Beating with the stick is the same movement as with the hammer and the slat replaces the anvil. Everything seems to indicate that the first balafon players were smiths.
According to one of the Mandingo cosmogonic myths, the first inhabitant of the Earth coming down from the sky was a blacksmith. It is certainly not by chance that the balafon played an important part in the history of the accession of the kingdom of Mali in the 13th century.
The history of the balafon, sung and recounted by the Jelis for eight centuries, is written in an epic that is comparable to India's Mahabharata, or the song of the Nibelungen in Germany.
Here is a summary:
At the end of the 12th century, Nare Maghann Konate reigned over the Mande country, a region that at the time covered today's south east Mali and north Guinea.
This king had two sons, Soundiata Keita was born in 1190 in Niani by his first wife and Dankaran Touman by his second wife. When the king died, it was the second son, Dankaran Touman who, with his mother behind him, took over power in place of his elder brother and legitimate heir Soundiata.
Soundiata went into exile with a few faithful followers and travelled all over the country to forge alliances with clan chiefs.
Just before his death, Nare Maghann Konate had foreseen this situation.
He named Bala Faseke, the son of his own Jeli as counsellor to Soundiata. He thought that with his political acumen, he would be able to help his elder son to resume the power usurped by his half-brother.
In the south of the country was another kingdom, Sosso.
This realm was governed by a blacksmith king Soumaoro Kante with an iron hand. This king, encouraged by desire for grandeur, annexed the surrounding small kingdoms one after the other and coveted the Mande country for its huge gold resources.
The young Mandingo king, Dankaran Touman, alarmed by the ambitions of his neighbour, sent his Jeli, Bala Faseke to the court of the Sosso King with instructions to try to mediate between the two kingdoms.
But Soumaoro Kante imprisoned him and thus violated the ancestral custom of respecting the Jeli.
The legend is that it was Soumaoro Kante who met the Dondori imps one day. They showed him an instrument he had never seen before: the balafon! Soumaoro Kante wanted to remain the master of this fantastic instrument. None but he had the right to touch it. If by chance, anyone else played it, he was summarily executed.
To emphasise this interdiction, he said, "If a fly lands on it, it shall be found and killed."
One day, in defiance of this prohibition, Bala Faseke penetrated the secret room where the balafon was kept and began to play it. Even though he was out in the bush hunting, Soumaoro heard the sound of the balafon. He returned home at once in a rage and was about to kill the Jeli, but Bala Faseke spellbound Soumaoro by singing his praises. He played with such virtuosity that the king was charmed by the music and appointed him as his personal Jeli.
War between Soundiata Keita and Soumaoro Kante seemed inevitable.
After several inconclusive battles, 1235 saw the battle of Kirina. In the morning, before hostilities commenced, Bala Faseke succeeded in fleeing back to his original master, Soundiata Keita. Thanks to the regained support of his Jeli, Soundiata won the war and became the first "Mansa", king of Mali.
His reign was the start of a long period of prosperity for Mali, which lasted from the 13th to the 16th century. That was the apogee of the balafon!
Each king or village chief would have his Jeli who could exercise his function and develop his art without material care.
Following the defeat of Soumaoro Kante, Bala Faseke played the balafon during the great ceremonies for a long time. Soundiata named him Bala Faseke Kouyate. That was the foundation of a long line of Griots: the Kouyates, who are still the guardians of this balafon known as the Sosso-Balafon that can be found at Niagassolo, in the north of Guinea.
In 2004, UNESCO added the balafon to the world heritage list.
Here you will find a description of the construction of an African balafon >>
The African balafon
Amongst thousands of percussion instruments, there is an important family, the mallet instruments. Xylophones, vibraphones, marimbas, metallophones, glockenspiels have a common ancestor - the African balafon.
The culture of balafon music is highly developed in the countries south of the Sahara desert (Sahel zone) and the tropical rain forest. In the 16th century, it became a real art at the royal court of Sikasso/Mali and was flourishing under the reign of a generous king. Being nourished and housed, the musicians developed virtuosity and founded a music tradition.
The balafon consists of wooden mallets and calabashes - hollow pumpkins - serving as resonance-boxes. Their volumes correspond to their notes. There are two or three holes in each calabash, covered by spider webs or bat wings, nowadays more and more by ...cigarette-paper. These membranes vibrate with the resonance, which creates a rustling sound, a so-called mirliton effect. This effect is accentuated by the sound of metal bracelets attached to the player's wrist. Mallets and resonators are fixed on a frame of wood sticks and strings made of goat's skin.
In Guinea, Nigeria, Chad and Kenya are the pit-resonated xylophones. The slats are placed over holes dug in the ground. The Makonde, Wayao and Wazaramo people in Tanzania play a type of marimba with one large resonator. In Eastern Cameroon, the ethnic Fang play with six mendjans, xylophones with different registers (bass, alto, tenor, soprano) that make up a real orchestra, the komendjan. The Fangs in Gabon play the mendjan me biang. The Bamileke, people from the north-west of Cameroon play the djein, a xylophone with big slats laid across banana trunks. In Chad, the Sarah and Sarakabas play the kundu xylophone.
DrumConnection Boston, MA 02474 ph: (001) 781-316-8068
Mailing address: DrumConnection PO Box 1311 Arlington, MA 02474
Customer Reviews
Actual Reviews
Sorry. I stopped adding to reviews for a while. Not much has changed except for the telling of people's stories. And we apprecite people Yelping or Googe+ ing or just sending us an experience
you'd like to share. Thanks! Alan
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.
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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.
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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.
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