Frequently Asked Questions (Conga Drumming)

I'll gradually add to this FAQ. My answers are based upon my own individual experience. I am not a professional musician or music educator, just a guy trying to learn. You may ask me questions by signing my guestbook or by sending me e-mail at ballestj@emporia.edu.

Q: Can you give me some beginner's tips (e.g., practice tips and things to do when just starting out)?

If you are definitely interested in pursuing conga drumming, then I recommend "investing" in the best conga you can afford. I started out with an inexpensive pair and realized I was going stop liking them before long. Get a conga (the middle drum) first and then a tumba (the larger low drum). Don't worry about getting the smaller quinto drum.

I would also take some private lessons with the best teacher you can find. I think it is really important to learn proper technique at the beginning. Talk to other hand drummers to get suggestions. Do you have any local people to hang out with?

Then just practice, practice, practice.

Q: Do you think it is a wise investment to get a conga stand?

I don't think getting a stand is important unless you are going to perform and need the extra volume you can get with a stand. I play sitting down most of the time.

Q: How do you take care of your hands?

I have heard many teachers say that bad technique can hurt your hands. My personal experience supports this.

My hands can get really dried out when I play. The Kansas winters can be pretty rough. I try to keep my hands moist with lotions. My skin can be sensitive, so when my skin cracks I use gloves for dishwashing, gardening and other such activities. There is a traditional Cuban remedy for problem skin, and it is based on the fact that urea (a chemical compound that is abundant in urine) is a good skin moisturizer. You can approximate this remedy by using a moisturizer containing urea, such as Eucerin or Dermal Therapy.