13 – 15 October 2023
Sessions
Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of Northern Ghana and Mali this year, under the guidance of premier International and local drum and dance instructors in a weekend brimming with pulsating rhythm, music, and jubilation.
This year, from 13th to 15th October, you’re invited to partake in the extraordinary spirit, music, and culture of Northern Ghana and Mali, the homeland of Yaw and Bassidi, at our annual NZ Drum Dance Camp.
Our esteemed culture enthusiast and teacher, Nathan Bregmen, will be returning this year, alongside African Drumming Master Yaw Asamudu, African Drum Master Bassidi Koné, and New Zealand’s legendary drummer Jimi Dale.
This year, our focus is on the community, uniting everyone as a single, large tribe through our shared love of rhythm…and there’s plenty to look forward to:
- Djembe and Dunun classes for all skill levels with beginner, intermediate, and advanced drum classes every day.
- Authentic traditional dance classes with Yaw Asumadu
- A communal Saturday night African Dinner
(book early for this $10) - Collective Jams and spontaneous melodic infusions
- Serene location in Waikato, surrounded by lush rolling hills.
With multiple teachers and multiple learning groups, this camp will accommodate drummers of all levels, ensuring everyone benefits from our fantastic line up of teachers.
Location
Narrows Park Christian Camp, 442 Airport Rd, Hamilton
Tel. (07) 843 6862
Comfortable bunk-style log cabins
Camp sites available if preferred
Big communal kitchen with utensils and cutlery
Large performance hall with fireplace
Bonfire area
Programme
FRIDAY 13 OCTOBER
5:00pm – 7:00pm – Arrive and settle in. Meet and greet.
7:00pm – 9:00pm – Introductions and all in workshop.
9:00pm onwards : Socialising and good ol’ fashion jamming – Plenty of melodic exploration so bring your Ngoni, Mbira etc
SATURDAY 14 OCTOBER
10:00am – 12:30pm – Group breakaway sessions – Drumming
12:30pm – 2:00pm – Lunch
2:00pm – 3:15pm – All in DunDun Workshop
3:30pm – 5:00pm – Group breakaway – Drumming
5:30pm – 6:30pm – African Dance
7:30pm – 7:30 pm – Communal African Style dinner prepared by Yaw.
8pm Onwards – A performance by community teachers, followed by an interactive percussion based dance party.
SUNDAY 15 OCTOBER
9:30 – 11:15 – Break away groups – Drumming
11:15 – 12:15 – African dance
12:15 – 1:15 – Lunch
1:15 – 2:15 – Break away groups – Drumming
2:30 – 3:00 – Final group performance of rhythms we have learnt over the weekend.
3:00 – 5:00 – Pack up and depart.
Rates
Payable as cash on the weekend
Adult Rate: $270
Early Bird Rate: $240 (early bird rate expires 13 August)
Camping rate (no bed included): $240
Drum Hire (booking required): $10
Communal African Dinner Sunday night: $10 (Must book in advance)
Optional Linen Hire: $20
** Food not included except Saturday night communal dinner extra $10
**Accommodation included in ticket price.
Please note Kids (up to 15 years) are very welcome to come along and participate. We simply ask that you cover the accommodation costs for them ($80)
FAQs
What should I bring?
-A drum if you have one, if not you can hire one for $10
-BYO food/drinks (Venue has a large commercial kitchen) *Except for Sunday night communal dinner if you choose to join us (please book in early)
-Shoes to dance in
-Sleeping bag and pillow
-Warm clothes
I’m an absolute beginner, can I come along?
Sure! We welcome beginners and our sessions will suit you. It’s a great chance to mingle with those who have been drumming longer and pick up tips and tricks from peers
What’s the address?
Narrows Park Christian Camp, 442 Airport Rd, Hamilton
Bookings
Please book in early to ensure your spot!
Tickets available to purchase online here
Family and group rates are available – please ask us for more info
For more info contact Nathan Bregmen
ph: 021 1567712