Roots in the Ground

Roots in the Ground explores the basic strokes on Tar, a middle eastern frame drum. Past beginning tar classes have put together pieces to play as an ensemble for In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theater's May Day parade in Minneapolis. Past advanced classes have adapted these strokes to playing Riq-style tambourines or tambo-tars.

Classes include stroke instruction, rhythms, ensemble playing, and improvising to a basic rhythm. Our learning method employs a whole-brain practice that includes stepping the pulse and speaking the rhythms as we play, engaging all parts of the brain.* The group supports each student to learn at their own pace. You will find this drumming a practice that gives you energy!

Rachel has enough loaner tars to accommodate a group of 20 in a beginning class or workshop. Outlets for you to purchase your own tars, tambourines, or riqs include Ellis Drum Shop in St. Paul, Minnesota, (651-603-0848) www.ellisdrumshop.com and Cooperman Drums of Vermont, www.cooperman.com.

* Rachel studied tar and riq-style tambourine with Layne Redmond and Tommy Brunjes. Layne began her drumming career studying and playing with Glen Velez, who adapted traditional methods of drum instruction into his "Handance" method of instruction.

For more information, contact Rachel at

bardlive@usfamily.net

651-353-3370