Learn Congolese Sebene Drumming - World Music Method

Master the Dance-Driven Grooves of Congolese Drumming

Congolese drum kit rhythms are unlike anything else. Built on relentless energy, deep syncopation, and driving polyrhythms, these grooves command the dancefloor. From the rolling drive of Cavacha and Sebene to the pulsating rhythms of Mutuashi, Kintweni, and Bikutsi, these styles are essential for drummers looking to expand their rhythmic vocabulary.

This course begins with some of the most influential rhythms in Congolese music – Cavacha, Sebene, and Zouk – before taking you deep into the traditional village grooves of Zebola, Mutuashi, Kintweni, and Agwaya. You’ll not only learn how to replicate these rhythms but also how to develop an authentic African feel, control dynamics, and confidently lock in with a full band. Led by Felix Ngindu, a drummer with deep roots in Congolese music, this course will give you the technical skill and rhythmic intuition to play these beats with authenticity and confidence.

Key Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Build a Strong Rhythmic Foundation

Master essential Congolese drum kit styles, including Cavacha, Sebene, Zouk, and Mutuashi.
Develop stamina and control for high-energy, dance-driven grooves.
Strengthen coordination between hi-hat, snare, and bass drum for fluid phrasing.

Expand Your Dynamic Range and Groove Control

Learn how to adjust dynamics to drive the energy of a song.
Use hi-hat techniques, ghost notes, and rimshot variations for expressive playing.
Play with endurance and consistency while maintaining rhythmic precision.

Play with Authenticity in an Ensemble

Develop ensemble awareness and interplay with bass and percussion.
Learn how to fit these rhythms into a full band setting.
Adapt traditional percussion parts to a drum kit with authenticity.

Understand the Cultural and Musical Context

Trace the evolution of Congolese drumming from traditional village rhythms to modern dance music.
Study the influence of Congolese rhythms on other African styles like Bikutsi and Makossa.
Explore how legendary drummers shaped the development of these beats.

Sample Lessons

Meet Your Tutor: Felix Ngindu

Felix Ngindu’s journey as a drummer began with Flash Musica, an informal academy where rising Congolese musicians honed their craft. His talent was quickly recognized by legendary singer and bandleader Kofi Olomide, placing him alongside some of the best musicians in the country.

His education continued under one of Congo’s greatest drummers, Dju Dju She from Victoria Eleison. As Felix’s career took him across Africa, he relocated to Cameroon, immersing himself in new musical styles before eventually settling in the UK. Now based in Liverpool, he has completed a degree in Popular Music and Production while touring globally with top Congolese musicians, including Kanda Bongo Man.

Felix brings decades of professional experience, technical mastery, and a deep connection to the roots of Congolese drumming. His teaching combines precision, feel, and cultural insight, making this course an invaluable resource for drummers looking to expand their skills.

The Ultimate Learning Experience

Congolese Drum Kit Rhythms - Deluxe

2.5 hours of detailed lessons teaching you to be proficient in every single rhythm you require to play Congolese drum kit at a professional level.

Interactive On-screen Notation

Learning new skills is easier with our innovative, interactive tools. Access on-screen notation, tablature, looping, slow motion and more.

Felix Ngindu – Masterclass

Take your study further and watch Felix’s masterclass and find out how to apply his principles into your own musical development.

African Backing Tracks

Put your new techniques into practice and jam over traditional African grooves so you can develop your own authentic feel and be confident playing in a variety of new styles.