First, I would like to say hello to all, here at congaboard. I have some advice for those that truly like congas. The conga drum is something truly special. Even amongst the other hand drums, it remains king. The conga and all it's rhythms, are to be understood and respected. I've seen and yes, even played with other so-called Rumberos, and Congueros that even after seven or eight years know nothing. This is because they are truly niether. They like congas, but the congas are nothing more than a means to socialize and drum. Whatever they play is always the same and never changing. They also tend to call the one, or two individuals that can carry the rest. 2 players, and 8 wannas. (not good). The Conga, like the piano, Violin, etc. must be learned the proper way. One should always invest in one's self, by finding good teachers, and by studying learning Media. Equally important is finding other players to play with and above all To practice, practice and practice the fundamentals. As one is growing one may feel that he, or she, is getting there. But only after many years of dedication, can one truly realize that one is still just getting there. It's an Art, that if taken lightly by the player, he or she, will be missing out on more than he, or she, may realize, and will not earn the Respect of others and will not feel the Pride of achievement they could have had, otherwise. Remember fun is always present! There's the fun of knowing you are on the right path. Then, there is the fun of just doing your own thing, which will always be just that. On an average, a Conguero should know at a minimum how to play a CHA-CHA, MAMBO, BOLERO, MERENGUE, GUANGUANCO, variations of FUNK, JAZZ, BLUES, and some 6/8 patterns.
Also at a minimum, a RUMBERO should know the following (FOLKLORIC AFRO-CUBAN RHYTHMS) as well : YAMBU, GUANGUANCO, RUMBA COLOMBIA, PALO, PILON, BEMBE, MOZAMBIQUE, IYESA, CABALLO, ABAKUA, AND OTHER 6/8 VARIATIONS. Should also know some PUERTO RICAN BOMBA, and PLENA Rhythms, and some HAITIAN RHYTHMS as well. "Cajon" and "Bata's" are also good to learn for playing at Rumbas.
Drumming is all good. people do it for all kinds of personal reasons. But, for those that are serious, there is just no other way.
CHARLIE "EL COQUI" VERDEJO