A percussion workshop in Dakar means learning the djembe and sabar to the rhythm of the group, in one of the capital’s neighbourhoods: the Médina, the Plateau or Ngor. The instrument, the instructor and a souvenir video are included, and no musical level is required.

Djembe and sabar: two drums, one collective rhythm

The session begins with an introduction to the two instruments. The djembe, which comes from West Africa, is known for its rhythmic versatility. The sabar, emblematic of Senegal, is played with a stick and one hand, and accompanies traditional celebrations. You then learn posture, the basic sounds and the first combinations, as well as how the different rhythms relate to each other.

The approach is gradual and adapts to everyone: beginners, the curious or musicians who want to improve. Traditional rhythms rely heavily on ear memory, so repeating them several times is normal. The work is done in a group and everyone moves at their own pace.

Percussion can be physically intense, hence comfortable clothing. It is sometimes hot in open-air venues, so a bottle of water is useful. The size of the instruments can vary from one session to the next. A short souvenir video can be made to keep a record of the session.

If you live in Dakar, it is a way to take part in a city art rather than watch it go by. If you are visiting, it is a session in a style you will not find on the beach.

Médina, Plateau, Ngor: where the workshop takes place

The session takes place in one of the neighbourhoods of Dakar, often in the open air or in an open space typical of the city. The Médina is a lively working-class neighbourhood where music is everywhere; the Plateau is the administrative and historic centre, with its museums and art studios; Ngor is a lébou seaside village (the lébou are the coastal fishing people of the Dakar region), facing its island. The neighbourhood varies from session to session depending on conditions on the day.

Things to do around Dakar

The rhythm carries on through the city: a stroll along the lanes of the Médina, the beach at Ngor, often alive with groups of musicians, or a local performance on certain days, with sabar and traditional dance. To go further into living culture, the African dance class is a natural answer to the drums, and other percussion workshops are available around the country. A visit to Ngor beach completes the day.