On Feb. 25,, local residents gathered at the Dublin Community Center to watch a live performance of the Monadnock Drum Caravan, a nine-person group that aspires to bring West African culture and sounds to the region.
For the last 13 years, Guinea native Abou Sylla has been teaching community members the styles and rhythms of West Africa using an assortment of djembes, a hand drum made of recycled cow skin that gives off three distinct sounds known as tone, bass and slap. According to Sylla, the word “djem” translates to “come together” and “be” translates to “peace” in West Africa. Sylla said the Monadnock Drum Caravan embodies the meaning of djembes.
“It’s never empty, I always have new people,” said Sylla.
During the performance, Sylla enthusiastically led the group in what he called “call-and-response” songs, a style of music where the leader plays a beat, and the other members reciprocate or add onto the rhythm. Drummers will respond to the leader’s rhythms by slightly cupping their hands and striking the surface of the djembe, creating a loud bang that echos throughout the room.
Sylla said the “call-and-response” style emphasizes collaboration and creativity among band members and the leader.
“It’s all about communication,” he said.
This back-and-forth style of playing is sometimes scripted, but for Sylla and his drumming crew, the music is never the same, and that’s the way they like it.
“I absolutely love it,” said member Chris Mann. “Whenever we play with Abou, it’s different every time. That’s why we keep coming back.”
According to Mann, the drumming group meets every Sunday night at the Peterborough Recreation Department, and members are not required to have any prior experience. Some of the current members have a musical background, but for most, Sylla was the first to introduce them to the art of drumming and what it means to play with a passionate heart.
“I found out I love percussion in my 30s, really late,” said David Clermont. “I’ve been in the club for seven years now.”
As the Monadnock Drum Caravan continues to gain attention in the region, newly appointed Dublin Community Center Director Monica Laskey said she plans to keep promoting diverse cultures and music in the community just like Sylla’s.
“I’m trying to bring in all kinds of cultural experiences and music,” said Laskey. “We have such amazing culture and music under our noses. I just think it’s brought a lot of joy.”
The Wilton Collaborative Space at 21 Gregg St. will be hosting Abou Sylla Friday, March 3. Doors open at 7 p.m.
