how to get started?

[tntn218]

I would like to learn to play congas. Never played instrument other than when child (piano). Saw pearl practice conga on internet - anyone familiar with it? Recommend start there or go ahead and purchase congas? Also if go ahead and purchase congas - do I need 2 or start with one? Have seen someone playing set and where I'd like to end up.
Any help appreciated b/c pretty much clueless at this point.
Thanks.

[Isaac]

Start with one good used or new if you have the funds,
11 3/4" conga. You can get the larger tumba (12.5")
a little later dowb the road.
Find a teacher near you to learn the
basic sounds and some technique so you don't waste time,
or injure your hands.....and very important,
Have fun... and start listening to some of the masters.
Welcome to the brotherhood of the conga!

~ ISAAC

[Bataboom]

Coming from a self learner and still new to it, I agree with the teacher part I just dont have that availible were I am. I do a lotta research online about handrumming conga playing. I started out about a year ago playing Djembe west african percussion, I found tons of info online with video clips and sound files out the wazoo. Im sure nothing beats a teacher if you have access to one but if you dont as in my case google up a lotta conga and hand drumming info, I learned a lot from reading and participating in this forum. Also some lesson books and or cd's would help you out.



Edited By Bataboom on 1136603284

[JohnnyConga]

Ok how about the guys from Texas chiming in and helping out our New drum brother tntn218....I know sombody is out there in Texasland...."JC" Johnny Conga...

[SkinDeep]

Welcome tntn218 I don't know much about Texas but there is a Puerto Rican cultural center in Houston. Bomba / Plena etc.

[fireman]

I would like to learn to play congas. Never played instrument other than when child (piano). Saw pearl practice conga on internet - anyone familiar with it? Recommend start there or go ahead and purchase congas? Also if go ahead and purchase congas - do I need 2 or start with one? Have seen someone playing set and where I'd like to end up.
Any help appreciated b/c pretty much clueless at this point.
Thanks.

Hi My name is mike I would suggest if you really have a desire to play congas, start first with a tumba. One drum is all you need to start with. It will help you develop your slaps,as well as helping you to keep a pulse.

[JohnnyConga]

Hi Fireman ..I have to disagreee...start with the middle drum ..the conga..not the bass drum...my 2 congas...hey Fireman tells us a bit about u....and WELCOME TO OUR FAMILY OF DRUMMERS!....."JC" Johnny Conga..

[pcastag]

I agree, start with a conga ( 113/4 or 12 or so) Get a teacher to at least help you develop good technique. What city are you in?
PC

[akdom]

On thing I agree on is to get a teacher. It is very important to start good !

Get a set of conga and tumba or conga and quinto and a teacher.
See ya

B