Johnny Conga’s Intensive Conga Training
Set in the beautiful ever greenery of Burien, suburb of Seattle, I found the setting a conducive environment for continuing the development of my skills on conga drums.
Johnny Conga’s ‘Conga robics’ are unique exercises on three drums that helped my arm strength. Some of the drum exercises included the single and double 5-stroke, 7-stroke, and 9-strokes as well as rocking hand (heel and tip) exercises. These exercises help in developing muscle memory and independence that facilitates hand coordination for playing various drum voices. Also covered were muffles, slaps, tones and flams.
Some of the rhythm patterns covered included: tumbao in 7, variations of
the Cumbia, Pilon, and 6/8 Afro variations.
I must note that there are many excellent drummers out in the world but most are not able to teach what they know. The ability to teach comes from learning. Learning, in itself, is a process that never ends. As a teacher of percussion, Johnny Conga’s methods are clearly imparted to the student with patience. I began drumming on my own and in the parks with street drummers. The most important part of what I got from this intensive drumming week was clean drumming ‘technique’. Pure, simple, and safe technique which allows me to ‘wow’ folks when they see this diminutive woman play congas con gusto!
As a performer, I was treated to witnessing my teacher’s expertise drumming in such diverse settings as with a latin jazz and salsa bands, to playing congas, bongos and tambourine with a blues trio. Johnny Conga is an inspiring conguero and rumbero.
My drumming intensive with Johnny Conga has provided me with a lifetime of valuable knowledge that will extend from me to my students.
Gracias Maestro! ......
I am now accepting anyone who would like to study the drum in my home in Seattle Washington USA...3 day Intensive and 5 day Intensive available..room and food included..hit me up at
johnnyconga@hotmail.com ..please also read what others have said about this experience and what they learned from me...Tks!..