Pupils drum up enjoyment

STUDENTS at Helena Romanes School got with the beat as they took part an African drumming workshop recently. Year nine pupils attended workshops on African drumming that were led by percussionist Andy Balls from Inspire-works, a company that provides educ

STUDENTS at Helena Romanes School got with the beat as they took part an African drumming workshop recently.

Year nine pupils attended workshops on African drumming that were led by percussionist Andy Balls from Inspire-works, a company that provides educational workshops to schools throughout the UK.

During the classes, students learnt how to create traditional African rhythms by playing in groups using a Djembé drum which comes from Senegal, a country on the western coast of Africa.

Year nine student Ian Studd said: "It was a good day, a great experience. We learnt loads."

Karen Brown, head of music, said: "I was very impressed by the whole thing. It was a thoroughly enjoyable and informative day and was enjoyed by teachers and pupils alike. The children had great fun taking part and it was, without a doubt, a great success."

A spokesman for Inspire-works said: "The workshops are an introduction to the energetic style of West African drumming. The Djembé has become Africa's most popular drum due to its sonorous tonal qualities, hypnotic pulsating sound and the relative simplicity of its playing technique.

"Each pupil is given a drum for the duration of the workshop ensuring they can fully partake in the activities and really absorb themselves in the feel of the day.