All state schools in Worcestershire can book the WMTA Djembes free of charge.

There are 33 drums altogether: 31 various sized djembe drums and 2 Dun Duns.

Many schools use the drums with several year groups whilst they are in their school. It is easy to get some basic rhythms started...some good ideas can be found via the web links at the bottom right of this page. Schools often store the drums in their school hall which makes them easily accessible to staff.

Your school needs to be a member of WMTA (Worcestershire Music Teacher’s Association). It is easy to become a member, you need to contact the Arts Education office on 01905 333505 to arrange this. This membership also gives your school a good discount on the annual Music Conference and also Twilight Sessions.

The drums can be booked out for a half term. As part of the agreement you will need to collect the drums from the previous school (they can fit if shared between two cars).

You also need to pay for any damage to the drums whilst they are in your care, e.g. split drum skins...this is a very rare occurance as the drums are very sturdy and well made.

Some ideas for using the Djembe set:

1. *Circle games, passing rhythms around the group
   

2. *Imitation, simple copy cat rhythms across the circle
   

3. *For exploring the elements of music such as Dynamic and Tempo changes
   

4. *Maths work, use the drums to add or subtract numbers of beats heard
   

5. *Accompany a story with sound effects, think about how sound can express mood changes
   

6. *As part of a school concert
   

7. *To extend musically talented children, give them a starting rhythm, then they can turn it into a longer piece showing as many different tones as they can
   

8. *Children accompany class songs
   

9. *Accompany a dance with an African theme
   

10. *As part of a cultural studies day
    

11. *For photographs to display around school
    

12. *For use by a visiting hand drum specialist (The Arts Education centre can recommend teachers and may even be able to help with some funding as part of The Artist in residence bids)
    

The list is endless really.