FAQ Update – Djembe Rhythms from West Africa

Though this website already has a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page, today I received an email with some more unanswered questions. So I will attempt to answer them here. 

I found your Youtube channel and came across your website.

First, thank you for providing free and very helpful information on both your YT channel and on your website!! 

I am a beginner and am learning how to play the djembe. I am interested in purchasing the books and the optional audio but have a few questions.

Root Jam Books:

1. What would be my best book format to  be able to view the notation while practicing (i.e., such as on a music stand)?

I like to have hard copies for reference books. But if I want to play while looking at the notation, would I be able to do so with your printed version (on Amazon) or would the PDF be a better option?

For practicing, a music stand is a good idea. The challenge with the printed books is to keep them open to the page you need. One solution would be to print selectively the pages you want to practice, with a copier/printer. PDF display could also work if you can make it large enough to see clearly. Or again, you could print selected pages from the PDF.

2. What is the approximate percentage of  beginner rhythms in each of the books?

Also how would I be able to tell if the rhythm is for beginners, intermediate or advanced players?

The rhythms are not divided into beginner or other levels. But you will see that in each section some patterns are easier to play than others. For example, the kenkeni is usually the simplest dunun part to play; likewise with the basic accompaniment djembe parts for most rhythms.

Audio:

3. Do your audio files for R2 and 3 4 contain clips of  the djembe drum only and no other instruments?

When I am learning a new rhythm on the djembe, I like to specifically hear how the rhythm should sound on a djembe first. Then it’s nice to hear how the song sounds holistically when played with other instruments such as the dundum. I did listen to the sample tracks you provided. BTW, I appreciate the samples of both the book and the audio files!!. The audio files all sound really good. But I have a hard time focusing and isolating the djembe parts/sounds as a beginner. Therefore, having the 2 clips would be perfect.

RJ2 has shorter sample clips… a few djembe, some bell, and some ensemble.
RJ3 uses a format of introducing each instrument separately, then layering them together. My advice would be to stop at the djembe part and practice it alone, then play along with the ensemble part when you are able.

4. My assumption is that the all of the audio files are downloadable MP3 files right – not streaming?

That’s correct, all of the audio files are MP3 downloads.

Ordering online:

5. If I were to purchase the PDF and audio files from your site via Paypal, how would I access the PDF and MP3 audio files? The reason I am asking this question is because when I click the “Add to Cart” button, it immediately brings me to the Paypal site where I would complete the purchase. So I am a bit confused in terms of the steps in the process to actually access the files. Usually I provide my personal information first such as my name and email address, then pay for the product. Sometimes I have to create an account first if I want to access and download larger files.

When you order PDF files or audio from my website, it links to PayPal. The order process is automated so when payment is completed, you receive an email with the download links.

To other readers: Please let me know if you have any other questions; I’ll be glad to help!