Drum record takes a beating
More than 700 take part
West Lothian pupils unite to seal spot in Guinness Book
The beat went on for West Lothian school pupils who set a new world record for the largest djembe drum ensemble.
The attempt needed 250 children to play djembe drums for a solid five minutes as part of the successful attempt to set the first- ever Guinness World Record in this category.
And in fact 476 drummers were recorded by a Guinness Book of Records judge playing for over five minutes – smashing the world record.
There was an electric atmosphere at Livingston FC’s stadium last Thursday as over 700 pupils from 21 schools came together to perform a unique percussion piece to set the new world record.
Pupils have been practising hard for the last few months on learning to play the djembe, a West African drum.
The project was organised by the Council’s Arts Services team, and was supported by Creative Scotland’s Youth Music Initiative.
Daniel Duggan from Infectious Grooves wrote the percussion piece played by the youngsters in their record breaking performance, and his firm also co-ordinated workshops for schools.
Daniel said: “This has been a fabulous project right from the start. The teachers have been great as they had to learn all of the different rhythms and parts to the African drumming piece then rehearse it with their students.
“What a privilege it’s been to create and be involved, and a big heartfelt thank you to everyone who’s been involved and made this possible.”
Schools involved included Bankton, Bellsquarry, Carmondean, Dedridge, Knightsridge and Williamston primaries in Livingston, Bathgate’s Balbardie, Boghall and Windyknowe primaries, Linlithgow’s Springfield and Lowport primaries, and Kirkhill and St Nicholas primaries in Broxburn.
Other primary schools taking part were Bridgend, Croftmalloch ( Whitburn), Mid Calder, Our Lady of Lourdes (Blackburn), Parkhead (East Calder), St Mary’s (Polbeth) and Uphall, as well as Pinewood School.
Sandra Drummond, a teacher from Balbardie Primary School, said: “They’ve had an absolute ball today and it’s been a great experience for them.”
Carmondean Primary School teacher Miss Farren said: “It’s been really good, they’ve all worked really hard and we’re so proud of them.”
Anna Orford, adjudicator for Guinness World Records, said: “They were all absolutely brilliant and not only sounded great, but looked fantastic – they played the music with their whole bodies. “They really wanted this world record.” Executive councillor for culture and leisure Dave King said: “It took a lot of hard work by the students to learn the piece up to a high standard for public performance, and their dedication and enthusiasm shone through.
“It’s a fantastic achievement to be part of a successful world record attempt, and I’m sure they will remember this day for the rest of their lives.”