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I have been playing conga drums for almost seven years and have had some formal instruction, although not nearly as much as I'd like. In the beginning, I learned what I could from instructional video tapes, books and an occasional interaction with a real live conga player. My first teacher was at that time the faculty percussionist at Emporia State University (ESU). I used to drum recreationally with biologist Dwight Moore, who has lots of interesting web pages. I learned many things during this period and even got to play with the ESU Student Jazz Ensemble a few times.
My first exposure to authentic Afro-Cuban folkloric conga drumming was in the summer of 1996 at La Peña Cultural Center in Berkeley, California. Since then I've been taking occasional lessons with Michael Spiro when I am in the San Francisco Bay Area (which is about once a year). I have also attended classes and demonstrations with Changuito, Giovanni Hidalgo, Tata Guines, Anga and Regino Jimenez. These experiences have been sporadic and sometimes the lessons go over my head. Nevertheless, I've always learned something new and gotten some valuable inspiration. Most of my conga drumming interest is in Afro-Cuban and Puerto Rican styles, which is reflected in the content of my page. Some of my links cover a broader spectrum of drumming styles.
As a performer, I have gotten more opportunities than I expected, being a relative beginner. I've recently played a few times with a local band named Unidos that needs a conguero for some songs. Perhaps someday I'll be part of a local conga drumming ensemble. Even in my small community, I have met many people who have more than a passing interest in conga drumming!
I will gladly accept corrections and suggestions for improvement. If you need help finding any of the videos or books, e-mail me (ballestj@emporia.edu) and I will send you some names and numbers.
If you want to know what I do for a living, you can go to my professional page. For more on my personal interests, please see my personal page.