Beginners learn beats of Africa

Drummer Jennifer Moss is bringing African beats to Castlecliff with her beginner drumming sessions. Photo/Stuart Munro

Jennifer Moss describes her first experience playing a djembe drum as "profound".

Since that day, the Palmerston North-based musician has made it her mission to share her love of African drumming with as many people as possible - and now she is bringing it to Wanganui.

Every fortnight, beginning July 27, Ms Moss will be holding drumming sessions at the Duncan Pavilion, Castlecliff. They are aimed at adults with no drumming experience.

"I had three Wanganui students come to my sessions in Palmerston North, so I thought there would be a demand here. The Duncan Pavilion was the third venue I looked at here and as soon as I saw it I thought, 'Wow!'"

Ms Moss said the great thing about drumming was how quickly beginners progressed.

"It really makes music very accessible to people. And while you can do it alone, there's great bonding when you do it as part of a group."

A musician for many years, she was taught drumming by a friend in Wellington about four years ago.

"The first time I drummed, it was a very profound experience. I loved it so much that I wanted to share it."

Ms Moss leads Manawatu African Drumming, for adults and children, and is the founder of the Manawatu Community Choir, facilitates the vibrant Manawatu Ukulele Group, and is a founding member of the performing electro-acoustic ukulele band Ukephoria!

Her Wanganui drumming sessions are open to anyone 16 years and over. Numbers are limited only by the number of djembe drums Ms Moss has available. Cost is $15 per session.

If you are interested in taking part in the drumming sessions, email Jennifer Moss at play@jennifersmusic.co.nz