PERFORMANCE LECTURES ~ excellent for the classroom or small group setting. Mr. Armstrong has presented these topics at the collegiate level for several World Music Survey classes, classes related to Afro-Caribbean music and religions, seminar series, and professional conferences. Each presentation includes in depth discussion and performance demonstration.

Topics Include

VODOU MUSIC
Detailed discussion of the Vodou religion, specifically as practiced in the US, and the extensive music repertoire it encompasses. Also discussed will be the role of the drummer in the ceremonial context and interaction with participants. Rhythms and songs will be demonstrated.

AFRO-CUBAN SACRED and SECULAR MUSIC
The sacred and secular musics of Cuba will be explored, including the batá drumming of Santeriá, rumba, salsa, and merengue. Comparisons, contrasts and conceptual continuities between the styles will be discussed and demonstrated.

SOLO TAMBOR
Demonstration, discussion, and analysis of this unique approach to the adaptation of vodou and batá ensemble rhythms for the solo drummer. How this material can be used in pop and chamber music settings will also be addressed.

MASTER CLASSES ~ hands on education in the round. Mr. Armstrong has presented master classes on these topics at colleges and universities, primary and secondary schools, and various private educational institutions throughout the US, Canada, and Asia.

Topics Include

AFRO-CARIBBEAN FOLKLORICO
Various Afro-Caribbean folkloric ensemble rhythms will be taught with accompanying songs, including specialized techniques associated with each style. These sessions have proven to be a great addition to any existing percussion ensemble concert program.

BASICS OF CONGA DRUMMING
Starting with basic tone production, a variety of techniques used in conga drumming will be discussed and taught. Technical exercises and simple ensemble rhythms will be presented to help build a vocabulary on these instruments.

CONGA CHOP BUILDERS
Based on the current "book in progress," several conga chop builders will be presented and demontrated in all areas of conga performance practice. Technical exercises, multiple drum coordination, and rhythmic concepts will be addressed to promote a variety of ideas for grooves and soloing.

note: conga drums need to be provided by the hosting institution.

HOSTING a Lecture/ Performance or Masterclass

• all FEES are based on location, travel, and type of event and can be negotiated dependent on budget and company support.

• James Armstrong is endorsed by Vic Firth, Sabian, Yamaha, and Latin Percussion. Support from these companies help offset all fees.
note: 60 day advance booking needs to be secured in order to obtain company support.

• CONTACT me directly for availablity and scheduling jdapercussion@gmail.com

BIO and LINKS

• for my bio and background information GO HERE
• visit me on YOUTUBE or MYSPACE
• additional promo materials (video, audio, resume, etc) can be sent upon request.

James Armstrong is also available for private instruction and solo concert recitals.