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Resources for Learning to Play Conga

Q: What resources does Artdrum recommend for learning to play the congas?

A: Here are a several highly recommended resources

Books on Conga Drumming

Recommended Conga Book:

Conga Drumming - A Beginners Guide to Playing with Time by Alan Dworsky and Betsy Sansby

Its easy to follow format will teach you correct technique, a lifetime's worth of beginner & advanced rhythms for single or double congas.

It is a great rhythm reference book for advanced players and excellent instructional book for beginners.

DVDs for Conga Drumming

Here are a couple DVDs we recommend - http://www.lpmusic.com/Product_Showcase/LP_Library/video_congas101.html

http://www.lpmusic.com/Product_Showcase/LP_Library/videos_rhythm_vol_1.html

LP doesn't sell their DVDs anymore. You can get them through Disney's web site. You might also find them on www.amazon.com.

Listen to the Music

There is no substitute for listening. Whether you are learning are just enjoying the music listen to as much conga and Afro-Cuban music as possible. For one, we recommend Dizzy Gillespie - even though his music is be-bop jazz he was big on the Afro-Cuban sounds and the congas. He is essentially credited for bringing the Afro-Cuban sound into jazz.

For others, we recommend Tito Puento, Poncho Sanchez; Mongo Santa Maria, Giovanni Hidalgo, Carlos "Patato" & Armando Peraza.
The list of great players who not only entertain but teach through their play is nearly endless, as is the drummers journey.

You can find great cds at http://www.lpmusic.com/Product_Showcase/LP_Library/lp_cds.htm. These cds are available through Artdrum at 30% off and FREE shipping. Also, I recommend Poncho Sanchez's Conga Blue - amazing music! - sorry, it's not available at Artdrum.

Teachers

Books, DVDs & videos can be great teachers, but a professional, live teacher will typically help you grow in the fastest manner. There are other benefits from a live teacher, including live playing, live listening & live feedback. In the Central NJ, USA Artdrum offers conga & Afro-Cuban drum lessons.

If you would like to learn drumming in Brazil or Cuba, Artdrum recommends Chuck Silverman, international teacher and player.

Videos for Conga Drumming

Conga videos from LP Music

http://www.lpmusic.com/Product_Showcase/LP_Library/index.html.

Conga Drumming Tutorial from Master Conguero Giovanni Hidalgo http://www.lpmusic.com/Play_Like_A_Pro/Tips/giovanni.html