Open Call for a Regular Group

As part of monthly weekend sessions, we will move from fundamental techniques through comprehensive development of rhythm, musicality, and flow, toward increasing freedom of expression on the frame drum. The course is open to everyone interested in learning this instrument — regardless of prior musical experience. It is also designed for those who wish to deepen and expand their rhythmic skills.

At the beginning, we will focus on building solid foundations of frame drum playing in the seated (lap-style) position, as well as on understanding and embodying different rhythmic concepts. I will provide you with a set of exercises that develop playing technique and rhythmic abilities, along with a system of tools that allows for independent growth in the direction you choose. We will work on both essential and advanced techniques, learn rhythms, solo phrases, and compositions (and create our own), develop a sense of rhythm and pulse through movement, and work on timing and limb independence.

Music is movement!

The method I use in teaching rhythm is what I call Rhythm In Motion — an approach I have been researching and developing since 2013. It is based both on cultivating rhythmic skills through intuitive, somatic practice and on deepening the understanding of rhythm itself.

In my work on playing technique, I also place strong emphasis on movement ergonomics: avoiding unnecessary tension and building a healthy relationship between the body and the instrument. This approach supports efficient, free, and effortless playing, while also fostering greater openness to entering a state of musical flow. Finally, it helps prevent playing-related injuries, which are very common in the professional music world.

Topics we will explore in the workshops:

• contemporary frame drum technique in the seated position (lap style)

• traditional rhythms and their variations

• creating new rhythms

• solo phrases and compositions

• percussion accompaniment for melodies

• limb independence exercises

• exercises developing a sense of rhythm and pulse: Rhythm In Motion

• flow — how to cultivate a state of “relaxed concentration”

• rhythmic vocalization

• optional (if the whole group is interested): coordinating voice and instrument, including learning traditional songs

• optional (if the whole group is interested): upper technique (so-called upperstyle or upright frame drum)

More About the Teaching Format

Class materials:
As part of each workshop, you will receive tasks, exercises, and compositions to work on at home — all provided as clear, easy-to-follow PDFs, supported by recordings from the sessions. I use a very accessible, intuitive, and easy-to-learn musical notation system.

Individual homework assignments:
Some of the homework will be tailored individually to participants, depending on their level and specific challenges.

Will you need to practice? :)
Regular, consistent playing is essential for integrating new knowledge and skills and for getting the most out of each session. For beginners, 20–40 minutes of daily practice is usually more than enough :)

Permanent group – shared progress:
To create a strong and supportive learning environment, it’s important that the group commits to the entire course cycle. This means that joining is only possible from the first session.
If for now you’d like to get to know the frame drum and see whether it’s something you’d like to pursue more deeply, I invite you to join one of my introductory classes (link above).

Class recordings:
All sessions, or key parts of them, will be recorded on video and made available to participants. There will also be an option to attend online.

Remote feedback:
Each participant will be able to send me a short video of their playing once every two weeks. Based on this, I will provide feedback and guidance for further practice.

The cycle of four sessions will conclude with a shared concert!