by ABAKUA » Thu Jan 06, 2005 2:20 am
Yo Untaltumbador: My tumbas are also blessed by a Santera. My reasons for this however were not so I could learn better so many years ago, they were for a more personal nature and out of respect that it was done.
Now, Obviously Bata are ceremonial drums from the Yoruba. If you are involved in the culture that which they are derived from, then yes, you are required to have a commitment to all that is that culture.
However in todays modern world and ever developing musical genres, bata playing in the non traditional method, using drums that are not "tambores de ceremonia" (ceremonial drums) bata playing has become available and open to all nationalities and sexes.
Anyone can go online or into a music store and buy books or videos with information onhow to play certain pattern or "llamadas/toques/Ibodus".
One should never play ceremonial drums if not a part of the culture.
My deepest respect to the Yoruba customs.
I myself, never use my ceremonial drums for any gigs I may have with bands nor do I use them to jam with other musicians, that would be an insult to all that which they represent.
I use non ceremonial bata for circumstances like that.
Back to ORIGINAL TOPIC, knowledge of bata rhythems has NOTHING to do with your conga playing.
A great batalero does not necessarilly make you an instant conga expert and vice versa, as said by Zaragemca.
Edited By ABAKUA on 1105041153