Basic Afro-Cuban Rhythms

Learn the classic rhythms of Afro-Cuban music with master percussionist and Berklee professor Ricardo Monzon. In this Berklee Workshop, Monzon demonstrates the patterns and instruments that form the beating heart of the Afro-Cuban tradition, on clave, conga, timbale, bongo and guiro. You'll play along as he starts slowly with the basic patterns, then increases the tempo with a number of variations. By the end, you'll have a solid understanding of how to play and practice essential Afro-Cuban rhythms.

Running time: 55 minutes

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About Ricardo Monzon

The rhythms of drummer, percussionist and Berklee professor Ricardo Monzon have graced the recordings of artists ranging from Walter Beasley and Didi Stewart to the Boston Pops and Greg Hopkins Big Band. A native of Guatemala, where he was once named best Drummer and Percussionist, the versatile Monzon has performed with soul queen Aretha Franklin, jazz harpist Deborah Henson-Conant, and classical ensembles like the Orquesta Sinfonica de Guatemala and New Life Symphony Orchestra. A master of congas, timbales and other Latin instruments, Monzon is a member of the Zaitchik Brothers and Myanna, and has played on several film and television soundtracks.

About Berklee Workshop DVDs

Berklee Workshop DVDs is a series of Instructional DVDs featuring top Berklee teachers, alumni and visiting artists. These 30- to 90-minute sessions focus on a single professional music topic from one of the five learning streams that flow through the Berkleemusic experience: Production, Music Business, Writing, Education and Performance.

Berklee Workshop DVDs are a great way to keep growing, stay creative, and build your career through exposure to the engergy and expertise of successful professionals. Based on interviews, lessons and performances, these sessions let you see and hear how the best musicians set themselves apart.