Percussion lessons in Havana?

[Lorne]

Anyone know of percussion (conga, etc.) lessons in Havana? I'll be there April 26-May 5 with my daughter, 19. We're both kinda novices.

Are there informal drum circles? Any other tips on live music in Havana would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Lorne

[Morgan Childs]

Lorne, although I've never been there, the musicians that I know who HAVE been there (one studied seriously, congas with Panga, the conguero from Cubanissimo) all say that music is so much a part of life down there, that you literally will not be able to AVOID running into situations that present unique oppourtunities to learn why the music sounds the way it does. They're into some really unique shit down there... I mean... a whole nother way of thinking about music and playing it, and I'm sure you'll find a lot of musicians to talk to about it. From there, you can set up more formal "lesson" situations, but I think the first step would be to just go to Havana... find some music (easy) and talk to some musicians (also easy. All the Cuban musicians I've met have been warm, open people very into sharing...). Maybe Al Johnston can give you some more insight, because he's been there a number of times, right?

[Allan Johnston]

Sure...

Lorne, email me privately at tumbao@telus.net, and I'll give you a few leads. There's some amazing music going on down there, and NOW is the time to go - before this Regime Change thing catches on...

[zaragemca]

Master Percussionist,Gerry Zaragemca have been conducting Drum-Circle for Advanced Percussion Structure for six years,from African to Brasilian(including Cuban),through the International Club of Percussionist.We are located in Houston,Texas.(e-mail),zaragemca@TheMusicPages.zzn.com.Contact 713 942 5476.