To turn a group of shy teenagers into a force capable of spreading joy and harmony, simply introduce them to a passionate music teacher with a fun and engaging instrument.
The Leisure & Cultural Services Department has been using variations of this formula since it launched its Community Cultural Ambassador Scheme in 1999. It encourages local performing artists or groups to reach out to the community through educational and fun activities.
One of this year’s projects is “African Drumming for Community Inclusion”, led by ambassador James Kwan, who has been teaching African drumming for more than 10 years.
A different beat
Having studied under world-renowned Master Drummer Mamady Keita from the West African nation of Guinea since 2002, Mr Kwan established the Mini-Guinea Drum Workshop in Hong Kong in 2006. He has also worked with social service organisations to teach seniors and the mentally disabled on a voluntary basis.
He organised an African drum, or djembe, training workshop in July, which consisted of eight sessions, totalling 24 hours’ practice for around 30 teens. Mr Kwan had previously taught adults and primary students, but this was the first time his class consisted of secondary students.
“I focused mainly on secondary students because they tend to be shy. The djembe looks simple and easy to handle. Everyone can try it. So it becomes a tool for me to provide knowledge, change their attitude and help them learn how to solve problems,” Mr Kwan said.
Positive vibes
The djembe is not only a great way to burn off some energy in a creative way, but also provides a sense of participation and inclusion. It is key that the players beat their drums in unison.
“I learned how to communicate with people. For example, when I didn’t know how to develop the rhythm, in the past, I would probably have left it and given up. But now, I will ask my classmates because we have to be accurate when we play the djembe together. I don’t want to be the odd one out,” said student Melody Tang.
After a month of training, Mr Kwan took his students for their debut performance at a Cheung Sha Wan seniors’ centre for the residents’ birthday party.
The students showcased their new drumming skills in a rousing 30-minute performance which the seniors enjoyed immensely. They hailed it as the best birthday celebration they had ever had, as it made them feel young again.
The young drummers were encouraged by the positive response.
“I feel like my confidence has been boosted. It was really good to talk with them when they were shaking my hand. It’s really good to know that they appreciated our show,” said student Shenleene Aquino Mak.
More than music
Mr Kwan did not expect his students to be djembe virtuosos giving a flawless performance after only a months’ tutelage, but that was not his ultimate goal.
To see a positive change in their attitude was his real mission.
“It wasn’t about how well they played. I don’t care if they made mistakes. It’s their attitude. I was glad to see them shaking hands with the audience members, and hugging them. It is difficult for students to play like professionals in this short time. But they enjoy it and can share it with others who are different from them. This is what young people need to learn. They have learned more than music.”
Mr Kwan and his students will continue playing djembe in different districts until the end of December, introducing a fresh new beat into the community.
