It’s hard to beat sounds of Africa

MANY of the original Dudu Zulu members travelled from far and wide to celebrate the drumming group’s 20th anniversary recently.

Dudu Zulu member Heather Elwell said the celebrations went off without a hitch and everyone involved had a fantastic time.

“We were happy with all the performances and we got some good feedback,” she said. “It was a good celebration.”

She said some of the people involved attended a master class the day after with professional djembe performer Adama from Mother Africa, who performed at the anniversary celebrations.

The group was founded in September 1994 after an African dance workshop was held in Toowoomba.

Elliott Orr played some African hand drums called djembes and the small group of participants was captivated by the sounds and rhythms of the drums – and keen to learn how to play.

Within two to three months, Mr Orr returned to Toowoomba to start several drum-making workshops. From that, Dudu Zulu was born.

Ms Elwell said several of the early members travelled to Africa to learn directly from the master drummers in the villages.

Dudu Zulu meets every Tuesday from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at the Dr Price room in Little St, Toowoomba.

People of all ages and abilities are welcome to join; however, it is recommended that new people join Ms Elwell’s beginner drum class initially.

The Loose Grooves drum class is held at theGRID, 488 Ruthven St, from 10am-1pm for $20 a person. Drums are provided.

For details visit www.duduzulu.com.au.