BeatRoot What's On

BeatRoot hosted an amazing day of drum, song and dance at the  Cosmos Centre in St Andrews, Fife.

The first session was run by Steve Haden who led us through the djembe rhythm and song called Jole.  The fifty-plus participants (who included a high number of beginners) soon picked it up and with backing dun-duns played by members of BeatRoot, the Cosmos Centre was rocking!

Session two was led by Babakarr, Karim and Khadem, who stirred us into a powerful version of Wassolon, with Karim playing some crazy dun-dun improvisation. What a joy to see all those smiles as we got into the groove.

Then came a real treat as we each grabbed a stick and Babakarr and Karim patiently led us into the Sabar rhythms of Northern Senegal. It was difficult at first but in time we were able to crack out the intro, move through three different parts, and end with the 'wassa wassa' thing. Truly a noise to behold as the enthusiastic multitude held to a tight rhythm, Khadem and Steve driving us on with the accompanying patterns, and with Baba and Karim playing some astonishing solos.

We all took a long break and West African style food was served thanks to some deft culinary expertise by members of BeatRoot.

Next session saw Babakarr leading us into the exhausting world of Sabar dance. Quite a sight seeing all those people keeping in time (well, nearly). It was a very demanding routine for us oldies but it was a great feeling to be part of such harmonious and energising activity.

Later in the evening we heard performance pieces from workshop participants. Steve Haden played Serrouba rhythms from the Casamance region of Senegal. Innes, Andy, Johnny and Colin made their first public appearrance, playing three pieces based on traditional West African rhythms. BeatRoot came on with five rhythms (Salia, Yankady, Djaka, Yansilla & Jole), and then Babakarr, Karim and Khadem played some truly wonderful Sabar to finish the day on a high. 

Throughout the performances there was lots of audience participation - singing, dancing, clapping, cheering, laughing - all of which demonstated that West African drum rhythms can stir your feet into action and bring joy to your soul!