Your Arizona MECDA Chapter
Tom Cooper
Workshop: Polyrhythmic Beats
11:00-12:30
This workshop is intended to incorporate the polyrhythmic traditions of West Africa into familiar Arabic rhythm patterns. We'll begin with simple concept exercises using Egyptian rhythms then focus on two families of rhythm; Shabbi (North Africa) and Khaliji (Gulf Region), where polyrhythms are prevalent. The parts are simple, yet when played together correctly, create a rich tapestry of sound. Please bring your own drum if possible.
11:00-12:30
About Tom Cooper:
Tom has been performing and teaching Middle Eastern and African music for over 20 years, and currently appears with various musical projects of diverse genres, from world music to experimental jazz. His visual art shows regularly in Phoenix.
Tom was co-founder and longtime Music Director of Domba!, the Arizona-based bellydance repertory which greatly influenced and furthered tribal bellydance in the US and abroad, and spent more than 15 years appearing onstage at the Arizona Renaissance Festival.
11:00-12:30
This workshop is intended to incorporate the polyrhythmic traditions of West Africa into familiar Arabic rhythm patterns. We'll begin with simple concept exercises using Egyptian rhythms then focus on two families of rhythm; Shabbi (North Africa) and Khaliji (Gulf Region), where polyrhythms are prevalent. The parts are simple, yet when played together correctly, create a rich tapestry of sound. Please bring your own drum if possible.
11:00-12:30
About Tom Cooper:
Tom has been performing and teaching Middle Eastern and African music for over 20 years, and currently appears with various musical projects of diverse genres, from world music to experimental jazz. His visual art shows regularly in Phoenix.
Tom was co-founder and longtime Music Director of Domba!, the Arizona-based bellydance repertory which greatly influenced and furthered tribal bellydance in the US and abroad, and spent more than 15 years appearing onstage at the Arizona Renaissance Festival.
