18 – 20 October 2024
Sessions
Join us this 18th to 20th October for a journey deep into the vibrant heart of Northern Ghana and Guinea at our annual NZ Drum Dance Camp. Set amidst the serene landscapes of Waikato, this weekend is not just an event but a celebration of unity, rhythm, and the soul-stirring power of African drum and dance, curated for the NZ African drumming community.
We are excited to announce that the renowned Epizo Bangoura will be joining us this year! While we are saddened that Bassidi Koné cannot attend due to personal reasons, we are honored to welcome Epizo, a master percussionist and dancer whose expertise and vibrant energy promise an unforgettable experience.
Epizo Bangoura is a celebrated master musician from Guinea, West Africa, known for his extraordinary versatility on the Kora (African harp), Balafon (African tuned percussion), and Djembe/Doun Douns (African drums). His performances and workshops have inspired audiences worldwide, making him a perfect addition to our camp.
Experience Highlights:
- Djembe and Dunun Workshops: Suitable for all skill levels, from enthusiastic beginners to advanced drummers, guided by our distinguished instructors.
- Traditional Dance: Be moved by the power of traditional dance with the exceptional Epizo Bangoura.
- Communal African Dinner: Enjoy a heartwarming gathering on Saturday night (please book early for just $15).
- Group Jams and Musical Sessions: Strengthen communal bonds through captivating group jams and impromptu musical sessions.
- Tranquil Setting: Enjoy the idyllic Narrows Park Christian Camp, enhancing our weekend of music and togetherness.
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 18 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 19 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 dinner.
8pm Onwards – Time for jams and socialisation.
SUNDAY 20 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: $300
Early Bird Rate: $270 (early bird rate expires 13 August)
Camping rate (no bed included): $270
Drum Hire (booking required): $15
Communal African Dinner Sunday night: $15 (Must book in advance)
Optional Linen Hire: $20
** Food not included except Saturday night communal dinner extra $15
**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 ($110)
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
Meet the teachers..
Born In Ghana Africa, Yaw has lived, breathed and studied African Drumming and music his whole life. He was a member or the Pan-African Orchestra for over 10 years and has performed all over the world in both traditional and fusion groups collaborating with people such as Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Francis Fuster, Andy Summers and Oren Marshall along the way. Before moving to New Zealand, Yaw has taught classes in London for almost 20 years, and now we are lucky to have him here, creating this exciting opportunity to study with a master of his craft.
Epizo Bangoura is a celebrated master musician from Guinea, West Africa, known for his extraordinary versatility on the Kora (African harp), Balafon (African tuned percussion), and Djembe/Doun Douns (African drums). His performances and workshops have inspired audiences worldwide, making him a perfect addition to our camp.
A master of the djembe and traditional dance, Epizo brings profound knowledge and vibrant energy, embodying the essence of West African music and dance.
Recently back from a 2 month study tour of west africa, Nathan Bregmen has been playing drums for over 20 years, and has been studying african drumming for around 10 years. Captured by the ability of african drumming to build community and bring people together playing music in a short space of time, the African Drum has quickly become Nathans instrument of choice. His light hearted but attentive teaching style has quickly made him a favourite with many students around the country.
Jimi has been teaching African Drum and Dance classes in Auckland and around NZ since 1995 and was one of NZ’s first African music enthusiasts. Recently his passion has been working with the part that melody has to play together with rhythm. He also loves being creative with singing, drums, dance and stories. You may have seen Jimi performing as part of his band Tamani, a world music and dance group he put together who have performed at many events all over NZ. Jimi loves the way African Drumming can bring people together, and how a simple groove and song can get people dancing.
