Weekly African Drumming Classes in Sheffield
If you’ve ever wanted to learn African drumming, there’s no better place to start.
Our Easy Grooves class has been bringing people together in Sheffield for many years, creating a welcoming community of drummers who meet every Thursday evening to learn, play and enjoy authentic West African rhythms together.
Some people arrive having never touched a djembe before. Others already have years of experience. What they all have in common is a love of great music and the enjoyment that comes from playing as part of a group.
The atmosphere is relaxed, supportive and completely free of pressure. You’ll develop your confidence, improve your technique and discover the energy that only comes from creating rhythm together.
All instruments are provided, so all you need to bring is yourself.
📍 Duchess Road Community Centre, Shoreham Street, Highfield, Sheffield S1 4SR
Easy Grooves African Drumming Class
Thursday evenings
7:45pm – 9:15pm
Easy Grooves is a 90-minute African drumming class inspired by the traditional rhythms of West Africa.
Rather than simply teaching individual rhythms, we focus on the experience of making music together. Every rhythm has its own place within the ensemble, and as the different parts come together you’ll discover just how rewarding group drumming can be.
The class develops naturally from week to week, giving everyone the opportunity to build confidence, improve their listening skills and become more comfortable with the instrument at their own pace.
Whether you’re completely new to African drumming or returning after a break, you’ll be made very welcome.
Class Information
- Time: 7:45pm – 9:15pm
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Venue: Duchess Road Community Centre, Sheffield
- Suitable for: Adults of all abilities
- Instruments: Djembe drums provided
Block Booking
To help everyone make steady progress, Easy Grooves is booked using a 6-class Block Booking.
Rather than treating each session as a stand-alone class, the Block Booking encourages regular attendance and allows the group to develop together over time. It’s one of the reasons the class has such a friendly, supportive atmosphere.
Price for Block Booking: £54
Includes 6 class registrations over an 8-week period.
How it works
- Purchase your Block Booking online.
- You’ll receive 6 class credits.
- Book the individual class dates you’d like to attend using our online calendar.
- Your 8-week period begins when you attend your first booked class.
- Works out at just £9 per class.
- Advance booking is required for every class.
New to Easy Grooves?
If you’re curious about the class but would prefer to experience it before purchasing a Block Booking, we occasionally run one-off taster sessions.
These evenings give you the opportunity to meet the group, experience the atmosphere and see whether Easy Grooves is right for you before committing to a Block Booking.
Next Taster Session
Thursday 10 September
7:45pm – 9:15pm
Advance booking is essential as places are limited.
Advance booking is essential for all classes – we do not accept walk-ins. Please book your place before attending.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve never played a djembe before. Is the class suitable for me?
Absolutely. Many members of the group started with no previous drumming experience. You’ll be guided through the rhythms in a relaxed and supportive environment, learning at a pace that feels comfortable.
Do I need to bring my own drum?
No. We provide quality djembe drums for everyone attending the class.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is recommended. The class is relaxed and informal, so simply wear something you can move comfortably in.
How does the Block Booking work?
Purchase a 6-class Block Booking online, then reserve the individual dates you’d like to attend through the booking calendar. Your six class credits remain valid for eight weeks from your first registered class.
Where are the classes held?
Duchess Road Community Centre
Shoreham Street
Highfield
Sheffield S1 4SR
Is there parking available?
There is a small car park at the venue plus on street parking nearby. Regular buses stop right outside the venue.
The ‘Easy Grooves’ Class
This class is suitable for beginners and as a warm up for more experienced players. In this session we explore the sounds on the djembe drum starting with the ‘bass’ (middle of the drum), the ‘tone’ (side of the drum) and finally ‘slap’. After some initial work on technique, we explore djembe rhythms from Guinea Conakry, Senegal and Mali in West Africa. There is a common and healthy mix of abilities in the Easy Grooves Class. We plan the material for Easy Grooves so there is something for everyone’s level - easy, accessible parts for complete beginners and more challenging parts for experienced players.
Team Drumming & Boomwhackers
Gift Vouchers for Classes
We are now selling Gift Vouchers for you to give your friends, family and loved ones. The gift vouchers can be used for single-class registrations or to purchase the Easy Grooves Block Booking pack. Buy a gift voucher to give someone special in your life a wonderful new experience to feel inspired and energized!
Unbeatable Experiences For Over Twenty Years
