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About The Gambia
The Gambia, well known as 'the smiling coast', is a small country
on the north west coast of Africa. Situated on either side of the
large and powerful Gambia River that dominates the country. Gambia
is about 300 km long by an average of 40 km wide and is surrounded
by Senegal. It has about 80 km of coastline on the Atlantic Ocean
and it is also where the river meets the sea.
Gambia is vibrant, colourful and fascinating with many different
tribes, traditions and rich cultural heritage. Music and dance is
an integral part of daily life in Gambia. The openness of the people
will leave a lasting impression.
Climate
The climate is subtropical with wet and dry seasons (dry from November
to May). Average temperatures 25°-35° C.
Language
Many different languages are spoken in Gambia but English is the
official language.
Drum and Dance Courses
The courses will be held in the small coastal fishing village of
Bakau. A beautiful area with many long sandy beaches, river estuaries,
palm trees and baobab trees. Bakau is within easy walking distance
to all amenities.
You can choose between drumming and dance or you can do both. There
will be a 2 hour session in the morning followed by a break then
a 2 hour session in the afternoon from Monday to Friday.
Other workshops available in conjunction with drum and dance are
Kora, a 21 string instrument, a cross between a harp and a guitar;
Balafon, an African wooden xylophone; and Flute.
Drumming Workshops
The 'Language of the Drum' with its different rhythms and techniques
will be taught, using both hands and sticks on Djembe, Sabar, DounDounba
and Bucarabou drums.
The emphasis will be on learning different structures of rhythms,
how to keep time using maracash, palm clappers and bells, the relationship
between beat and offbeat and experiencing the feeling of rhythm
in your entire body.
Dance Workshops
Dance workshops will teach an array of techniques, dances, steps
and cultural styles.
Food and living.
Accommodation will be shared with two or three others in small houses,
with toilet and shower, typical of the area. Gambia has an abundance
of fresh tropical fruits and vegetables. All meals will be provided
with the main meal comprising delicious Senegambian fish, meat and
vegetarian dishes. A small kitchen will be available for tea &
coffee or smaller meals.
On Saturday and Sunday you are free to explore Gambia on your own
or with the group at organised events such as weddings or naming
ceremonies. Most nights of the week there is a wide variety of cultural
music performances to be seen. One week will be spent in Senegal
living and participating in an artists colony.
Dates
2009 JUNE TOUR - Departs early June(TBC) includes a 28 day stay in The Gambia
Cost
Cost + airfares - TBC. Contact King to disscuss requirements on 0430 465 133 or email:
kingmarong@yahoo.com
Non-refundable deposit required upon booking.
Cost includes
- Mon-Fri music/cultural tuition.
- 2 meals a day: breakfast and the main meal of the day, lunch served at 2pm.
- Diner can be cooked, shared or purchased at one of the numerous local or resort restaurants and costs from around $3/Aust
- Accommodation (see Food and Living)
- all ground travel.
Deposit
$1,000 is required when booking.
Cancellations will require two months notice prior to departure
for refund. Costs incurred after 31 March, 2009 will be deducted
from the deposit and non refundable should cancellation occur.
Transport
Flights will be booked as a group from Melbourne, all transfers
as a group in West Africa will be provided.
Insurance
All students are required to take out medical and travel insurance.
Details provided with booking confirmation.
Vaccinations
The Gambia's only mandatory health requirement is a yellow fever
vaccination. Anti-malaria medication is recommended.
Expressions of Interest
For bookings and enquiries phone King on 0430 465 133
email: kingmarong@yahoo.com
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