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| FADOUBA OULARE 1935 - 2010 |
| Date: January 27, 2010 |
Today we learned of the passing of one of the world's greatest djembe masters; Fadouba Oulare. It is with heavy hearts that we relay this message. DrumSkulls would like to extend our thoughts and prayers to Fadouba's family and to Fadouba himself as he journeys forward. He will be missed in the greatest way.
Fadouba is known world wide as possibly the single greatest historian of djembe music and culture. He has been extremely influential in the djembe movement in Guinea and has also become well know as a gracious teacher for students worldwide. The gifts that Fadouba has given to his culture and to us as students both directly and inadvertantly are immesurable. Thank you for the blessings of your music and for sharing with us your kind and generous spirit.
Donations to help support Fadouba's family can be made by contacting François Pradelle at palapoula@hotmail.fr
Fadouba is the first djembe player from Guinea to be recognized around the world. Fadouba Oulare was born in 1935 in Felaway, Guinea. At the age of seven, Fadouba began training on djembe with his father Youssouf Oulare. Fadouba grew up playing djembe for folklore and traditional Malinke ceremonies. In 1959, Keita Fodeba, from the ministry of culture, began working with Fadouba to start the first national drum and dance group, Les Ballet Africains. Fadouba was the first lead djembefola of the ballet. After a few years of international tours with the ballet, Fadouba was recruited to perform with the Military Ballet in 1961. He played with this ballet for 20 years. He then returned to his family in Faranah, Guinea where he settled in and began teaching students. Fadouba is survived by three wives, and 34 children.
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| CHECK OUT OUR LATEST "BUILD TO SUIT" CUSTOM ORDER! |
| Date: January 14, 2010 |
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| NEW WIRELESS MIC SYSTEM FOR DJEMBE |
| Date: November 24, 2009 |
DrumSkulls now offers what we believe is the finest option available for amplifying your drum. Our new wireless mic system mounts to our special mounting strap and allows you to move freely while the audience hears a crystal clear signal of your drum through a PA system or amplifier. We've researched various mics and wireless systems and we feel this is the finest option available at the most reasonable price.
Follow this link for more info.
 
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| NOW OFFERING BATA REPAIR |
After numerous requests, we finally gave in....
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| IN SEARCH OF USED DRUMSKULL DUNUNS.... |
| Date: August 31, 2009 |
Any one out there looking to sell a set of used DrumSkull built dununs? One of our customers is looking for a full set that has been used. If this fits you, give us a call and we'll make the connection. Ask for Ryan.
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| IN OUR HEARTS AND OUR MINDS... |
In Honor of Jean Louis Mbemba Pangou:
It is with great sorrow that we report the passing of our beloved brother, uncle, teacher and friend, Jean Louis Mbemba Pangou. Mbemba was an integral member of the Bay Area Congolese dance & drum community. Mbemba, as he was affectionately known, lived in San Francisco for close to 30 years and was the consummate artist. Born in the Republic of Congo on September 30, 1949, Mbemba was blessed with astounding talents in both traditional and popular Congolese art forms, including music, dance and theater. These talents led him all over the world, to the US in the late '70s, and to California, where he then settled in the early '80s.
More than a gifted musician, recording artist, dancer, actor and teacher, he was a source of quiet but unwavering strength and dedication to preserving and sharing Congolese cultural art forms. For those who knew him personally, he was a warm and caring individual who never failed at being there to support the ones he loved. His passing is a great loss to his immediate family in Congo, his co-workers and colleagues and our extended family and community here in the US. Though our hearts are filled with grief, we celebrate his spirit and the legacy of love and generosity this great man left behind.
Regarding The Conflict In Guinea:
DrumSkulls would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to victims, families of victims and the people of Guinea, where over a thousand people were injured or killed in a political rally last week (Sept. 29) when the military opened fire on demonstrators. At last report, the death toll has risen to 157 with more than 1,200 people injured.
Guinea has seen a rise in poltical upheaval since December of 2008 after the death of President Lansana Conte. He was one of only two presidents to rule Guinea after it gained independence from France in 1958. Following Conte's death, military leader Capt. Moussa Dadis Camara seized control in a military coup and declared himself president of the National Council for Democracy, and called for a transitional body to oversee the country's return to democracy. At first, Camara was welcomed by citizens weary from decades of authoritarian rule under Conte. However, Camara has since lost support because of the actions of his troops and his own inconsistencies.
We have been in close contact with our friends and families in Guinea and are happy say that those close to us have not been involved with the dangers of late. None the less, all Guinean people suffer as a result of these things. Guinea is a place of peaceful people and we truly hope that peace will soon be restored. We have been told that things are improving. Let us all hope and pray this continues.
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| LAYAWAY AVAILABLE... |
Sometimes the money isn't there but the perfect drum is!
DrumSkulls have always offered a layaway option however it is not something that we have previously advertised. For years we have suggested to our customers that if you see the item you want, you should act on it. We say this simply because we know, our items sell fast!
Given this, we are more than happy to work with our customers on a payment plan that works well for them. In order to lock in your item before it's gone, DrumSkulls ask for an advance payment of 1/2 down. Once an advance has been placed we will then further work out a plan for future payments. We handle each layaway on a case by case basis and do everything we can to make it a comfortable transaction for our customers.
For more information or to place a layaway order, please contact us direct. We are always happy to work with our customers given any situtaion. Believe me...we've been there! |
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| LAST GUINEA SHIPMENT |
| Date: August 13, 2009 |
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| LAST MALI SHIPMENT |
| Date: July 28, 2009 |
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| CUSTOM DJEMBE METAL WORK! |
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Drumskull Drums is proud to announce our new partnership with Grant Gordon, founder of Djembekan Jewelry. As the sole retail outlet for Grant’s custom djembe metal work, DSD will now be offering these elaborate djembe decorations to the public! Grant’s work has been made famous due to the elaborate work he has done on Mamady Keita’s personal drums. Grant’s metal work is extremely original and highly sought after. These decorations have raised the bar of djembe customization.
Grant’s custom metal work is now available on our own specially selected line of DrumSkull djembes. This same service is available to our customers on any pre-owned djembe as well. These are available in gold or silver, with various shapes of studs and tacks including triangle or rectangle. All of these drums will also come with a rubber bottom, making the ultimate in djembe upgrades.
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| CHECK OUT THIS CUSTOM BUILD! |
These beautiful drums are currently on tour with an Italian drum troupe somewhere in Italy. Enjoy them guys!
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| AN EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOM BUILD! |
Check out our latest custom build! The shell was custom carved by our guys in Mali from one solid piece of lenke wood. This is a one-of-a-kind!
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| ABDOULAYE DIAKITE UPDATE...NEW WEBSITE LAUNCHED! |
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We are happy to announce that we have now launched a specific website for updates on Abdoulaye Diakite's medical situation. The website is being updated and maintained by Abdoulaye's good friend, student and housemate Jesse Servin. The website can be found at www.abdoulayeupdate.com
In addition, a fund (Abdoulaye Diakite Fund) has also been set in place for donations via Wells Fargo Bank. Thank you to all who trusted us enough to donate directly to DSD prior to establishing this account. All donation have now been deposited into his account and are being managed by his family and close friends.
For a direct update on Abdoulaye click here: Abdoulaye Update
To make a donation to Abdoulaye click here: You can help!
To learn more about Abdoulaye click here: Abdoulaye Diakite Bio |
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| FREE DRUMSKULL DRUMS STICKER! |
Send us a SASE (self addressed stamped envelope) and we will send you out a sticker right away.
Our Address:
DrumSkull Drums - Free Sticker
105 Pioneer St. Suite C
Santa Cruz, CA 95060 |
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Abdoulaye Diakite
Some back ground on our teacher. Without Abdouli, we'd never be doing what we're doing!
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Massengo
Massengo Constant has performed for over fifteen years as a soloist drummer with both the Ballet National de Jeunesse and the Congolese National Dance Company. He has toured worldwide and is presently lead drummer of Fua Dia Congo and choreographer of Kizingu Dance Company and Ballet Maba. Massengo currently teaches drum classes throughout the Bay Area. His CD Massengo pulses with authentic world beats, combining transcendent drums, kalimba, bells, xylophone, and vocals.
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Bolokada Conde
Bolokada Conde played djembe before he could walk. Born in Kissidougou, Guinée, he was called to Conakry by Les Percussions de Guinée as a Premiere Soloist. Bolokada is renowned in his region and in Conakry as a master folklorist, and was honored by a gift of land by the Mayor of Kissidougou. For years he toured the US and internationally with Les Percussions de Guinée and gained a worldwide reputation as one of the most exciting and dynamic djembe players alive. He has released two CDs, and is featured on the IMAX movie "Pulse: a STOMP Odyssey". Bolokada is currently the Musical Director and Premiere Soloist for Les Percussions Malinke.
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Abdoul Doumbia
Abdoul Doumbia was born and raised in Mali, immersed in the ancient musical and cultural traditions of this West African nation. He was called to the drum at the age of 5 and completed a 16-year apprenticeship under Master Drummer Moriba Keita. Abdoul worked with a number of professional dance/drum companies in Mali, including serving as lead drummer for the renowned traditional drumming and dance troupe, Babemba, for 9 years. He was also chosen as the representative of his region for 8 consecutive years for the National Drum Festival of Mali. Abdoul was brought to the United States in 1991 by Brown University. He moved to Boulder, Colorado in 1998 where he lives with his wife Katrina and 2 sons. Abdoul teaches and performs regularly across the United States, and also organizes cultural tours to Mali on a regular basis.
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Alisco Diabate
Aly "Alisco" Diabate was born in Conakry, Guinea. He comes from a Djeli family of storytellers, historians and musicians. A master dundun and sangban player, he has toured internationally and played with Les Ballets Africains, Les Merveilles d'Afrique & Ballets Soleil. Aly travels throughout the United States and Canada performing, teaching workshops and master classes.
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Isaac Allotey
Isaac Allotey (The African Lion) initated the group "DZA OYA LOGOR" in the year 2002, after he won the National Dance Championship of Ghana. He started by gathering all the regional dance champions in to one group and name it "DZA OYA LOGOR" dance group, meaning "you cannot penetrate, unless you pass behind it."
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Fabe Productions
Fabe Productions, is founded by Maria E. Pino a Toronto-based djembe/doun drummer who has been learning and playing music from Guinea, West Africa for over 12 years. Locally, Maria has been involved in the drumming scene in Toronto through various performance groups, such as; Group Soume, Ijo Vudu Dance Comapny, Aya Dance Collective, Bolokelen, Roots Drummers and also worked with Drum Cafe and a variety of local community groups.
She has trained with great masters from the region, such as; Famadou Konate, Mamady Keita, Mohamed Diaby, Yamoussa Camara and M'Bemba Bangoura.
After travelling to Guinea, it was clear to see the beauty and diversity of such an amazing place. Guinea is one of the poorest places in the world with the richest culture and musical talent in the world.
Rhythm is life in Guinea.
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The 418 Project
This is our home base in Santa Cruz. The schedule is always changing, but there are always at least 5 West African dance classes happening per week.
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Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts
One of the best centers for West Africa, Congolese and Brazilian Drum and Dance. Originally the "Alice Arts Center," it has recently been renamed to reflect the respect and love that the drum and dance community has for one of our greatest teachers Malonga Casquelourd.
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BrasArte/ World Dance Center
Owned and operated by Conceiçäo Damasceno, World Dance Center is both a Brazilian cultural center and a dance studio. Bay Area residents can take advantage of the many Brazilian and Afro-Brazilian dance classes taught every week by Damasceno and other native teaches from Brazil. Dance classes are both a physically invigorating and a culturally rich experience, incorporating indigenous, African and Portuguese influences.
World Dance Center also offers many classes from diverse cultures, for both adults and children. Classes run on an ongoing basis, so new comers can jump in any time. Check our class schedule for details on classes that are for children or for adults geared for all levels, beginners or intermediate/advanced students. é
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WADaBo - West African Dance in Boston
These guys in Boston are doing it right. They've got a great West African Drum and Dance scene going on. Check them out if you're in the area.
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Djembe Brazil
We love these Brazilian fanatics! It's great to see the influence this music is having everywhere.
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West African Drum and Dance - Vermont
This is the site of a good freind of ours that study under our same teacher, Abdouli Diakite. Some good resources here on Abdouli and the Vermont scene.
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Santa Cruz African Drum and Dance
This list is for Santa Cruz African drum and dance enthusiasts interested in class schedules, performances, and drum and dance tours to West Africa.
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Congolese Dance & Drum Workshops
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Eric Charry - Djembe Article
Eric Charry has put together some of the best anthropological documentation on the history and music of West Africa. Here is a short excerpt from his writings. Check out his book Mande Music.
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Abaraka Music
This site has been launched by some good friends of ours. They are dedicated to supporting some of the greatest artists of Guinea. We are proud to be a distributor of their products.
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Rootsy Records
Rootsy Records was founded in 1999 by Jeremy Chevrier and Abdoulaye Diakite with the intention of recording and archiving traditional djembe music for the future.
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Middle Path Media
MPM represents artists, musicians who are recognized as masters of their art at home and abroad. They personally travel the globe to places like Guinea and Mali in West Africa, and Cuba, Haiti and Puerto Rico in the Caribbean to work with and document people in their homeland. This helps them convey as authentically as possible the cultures and circumstances in which these artists live and create. They work collaboratively with many of the artists, and together they create media that is accurate and informative as well as pleasing to the senses.
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SevagC.com
Sevag Chanchanian. Created the sites new GUI (Graphic User Interface) in 2009 and executed all company photography since 2008.
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Capitola Design
Creators of the DrumSkullDrums.com website engine.
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Zulu Connection
Zulu Connection, one of USA's finest and most popular performing arts companies, was born in the capital of music and culture; New Orleans, Louisiana. Masters of the African form of stiltdancing and ancient mystical masquerades, Zulu Connection spellbinds its audiences with colorful and elaborate costumes, tremendous heights, extraordinary acrobatics and magnificent dance moves. The highly rhythmic music that accompanies each performance has been characterized as captivating and invigorating, pushing most audience members to get up and dance. In the course of a concert the program entertains, but educates as well on African customs, history, musical instruments, masquerades and legends, dispelling common held myths
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AfroFlow
This is not Hip-hop music. This is not Rap music. We rush 2 call it 1 or the other every time some1 speaks rhythmically over a beat, even 4 1 second. Then the debate 2 distinguish real “Hip-hop” from “Rap” begins without end or collective agreement.
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Spirit Drumz
Founded by Afia Walking Tree, Spirit Drumz utilizes drumz of the African Diaspora as essential tools for healing and liberation. Spirit Drumz fosters empowerment and activism through creative, expressive, performance arts and earth-based spirituality.
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