What I’m Doing Now | Dave Kobrenski
Here’s what I’ve been up to the past few months.
This was a busy summer with concerts, with a variety of different music projects. It all culminated with 4 days at the Wula Drum and Dance Retreat, where I taught Fula flute classes.
Not that I’m back home in NH, it’s time to focus on some other projects:
West African Drum Classes
After many years, I’m finally back to teaching West African drumming classes. I love sharing what I’ve learned during my years living and traveling in West Africa! Registration is now open for Fall 2024. See here for more information.
Famoudou Konaté’s book
Since August, 2023, I’ve been working with master djembéfola Famoudou Konaté and Thomas Ott on translating and editing Famoudou’s memoir, which is currently available in German and French editions.
All translation, editing, and formatting are now complete, and we’re working with the overseas publishers on final legalities before we can publish the book. It’s getting closer!!
For updates on when the English version will be available, sign up on the email list.
New book: The Mande Flute
For the past year, I’ve been transcribing and recording all the songs I learned from Lanciné Conde in West Africa during my 15-year apprenticeship. I’m compiling them into a book (with CD) along with historical information and music notation.
This has been tons of work, but one of the most rewarding projects I’ve worked on in a long time. I anticipate that completing the book will take me many more months. Shooting for 2025 release.