omar ledezma
Overview
This introductory course will help you develop a solid foundation in each of the primary Latin percussion instruments. You’ll learn effective technique on congas, bongos, timbales, bells and auxiliary instruments, while studying many of the Latin grooves typical of son, salsa, and Latin jazz. Soloing techniques, typical breaks, song forms and historical information are also discussed. Required texts: Progressive Steps to Syncopation for the Modern Drummer, Ted Reed; Stick Control: For the Snare Drummer, George Lawrence Stone. Prerequisites: None, open to all.
Wednesdays 6:30 – 8 pm
9/19 – 11/28 (10 weeks) no class 11/21
Performance date: Wednesday 12/5
Omar Ledezma • $415
Registration
DEPARTMENT: Drums
COURSE TITLE: Latin Percussion I
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Develop a strong foundation on each of the primary Latin percussion instruments. Learn effective technique on congas, bongos, timbales, bells and auxiliary instruments while studying many of the Latin grooves typical of son, salsa, and Latin jazz. The instructor also discusses and demonstrates soloing techniques, breaks, song forms and historical information.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
Students will learn core rhythms and grooves played on Latin percussion instruments (Congas, Bongos, Timbales) in son, Latin jazz and salsa ensembles. Historical context and technical considerations will also be covered.
COURSE PREREQUISITES:
Prerequisites: None, open to all. All instruments are provided for in-class use.
REQUIRED READING/MATERIALS:
- Reed-Syncopation #1
- Stone-Stick Control for the Snare Drummer
RECOMMENDED READING/MATERIALS:
– THE CONGA DRUMMER’S GUIDEBOOK BY MICHAEL SPIRO
– The Tomas Cruz Conga Method – Volume I by Tomas Cruz
COURSE OUTLINE:
Week 1
In-class discussion of the history of the Latin percussion instruments and the relationship of the different styles that feed the modern way to play Cuban percussion
Week 2
Explore the instruments and basic technique
Week 3
The study of the basic patterns for popular Latin percussion instruments: La Marcha (the conga drum)
Week 4
Continuation of the study of basic patterns for Latin percussion instruments: La Marcha (the conga drum)
Week 5
The study of the basic patterns for popular Latin percussion instruments: El Martillo (Bongos)
Week 6
Integration of the two rhythms: La Marcha y El Martillo
Week 7
The study of the basic patterns for popular Latin percussion instruments: La Cáscara (Timbales)
Week 8
Integration of three rhythms: La Marcha, El Martillo y La Cáscara (“Abajo” configuration), starting discussions about end -of-quarter performance
Week 9
Preparations for end-of-quarter performance.
Week 10
Review of the material learned and performance pieces
Omar Ledezma Jr. (percussion, voice)
Diploma, Performance, Berklee College of Music 2003. B.S., Law School, Santa Maria University, Caracas, Venezuela 1995. Active local performer, teacher, GRAMMY nominee and world class musician. Toured with renowned artists in USA, Europe, the Caribbean and South America. Has participated in more than 35 recordings, DVDs and books. PEARL PERCUSSION Artist.
