by blavonski » Fri May 29, 2015 8:11 pm
Hello Cacahuét,
Given the fact that the role of the Bongó in an ensemble, whether it is a Son group, Conjunto or so called Salsa Band is Rhythmic and improvisational, I would suggest that you listen to as many recordings of authentic Afrocuban Music that feature Bongos that you can find. Now of course as so many on this forum know, you can adopt other Rhythms that are played on conga usually to the Bongo´. But, the Martillo is the bread and butter of this instrument and everything else stems from it, including how well one can improvise and stay in clave with the other instruments. Again, in my opinion, listening, listening and listening some more to and playing along with recordings of as many Bongo players in different settings and musical styles as you can is the best way to get a handle on the language that relates to the Bongó.
Master the basics, (Martillo, Clave and Compana) and what comes behind that, that is you. The music tells you what to play when you have developed a loving relationship to the drum and the music, and can hear all that it wants to tell you and anyone else who's listening. Good luck delving into the deep rhythmic waters of this wondeful and too often underated instrument.
Good Vibrations,
Mr. Blavonski