African Talking Drum Workshops for BHM 2026

Get ready to jam and learn the rhythms of the African talking drum in this fun, hands-on workshop for BHM '26! Suitable for families & kids.
African Talking Drum with Richard Ọlátúndé
Two Interactive Workshops | All Ages & Abilities Welcome
Join acclaimed drummer and workshop facilitator Richard Ọlátúndé Baker for an energising workshop where you will learn to play the Talking Drum. Whether you are a complete beginner or have previous musical experience, these sessions offer a fun and engaging opportunity to explore rhythm, tone, speech and cultural expression through the use of the Yoruba Gángàn drums.
Designed to be inclusive and accessible, the workshops welcome participants of all ages, abilities and learning styles, including those with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Workshop Times
Session 1: 1:00pm – 2:00pm for families and children over ten
Session 2: 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Tickets: £10 per person, per one-hour session

About Richard Olátúndé
Richard Ọlátúndé is an experienced drummer, touring musician, workshop leader, producer, and instrument maker, known in UK and internationally for delivering dynamic and engaging African drumming experiences.
His workshops combine fun participation with cultural learning, creating an enjoyable environment where everyone can take part, regardless of musical background. Richard is fully DBS checked, with Public Liability Insurance.

What You'll Learn
During this one-hour workshop, participants will:
● Learn the history of the drum
● Explore Yoruba tonal phrasing
● Experience the joy and energy of collective drumming

What to Expect
Each session is highly interactive and includes:
• Introduction to foundational talking drum techniques
• Guided tonal rhythm exercises
• Collaborative performance and improvisation
Come along, discover your Gángàn groove, and experience the power of drumming in a welcoming, supportive and creative environment.
Suitable for: Children, young people, adults, families and SEN participants.
Pricing
Session 1 (1.00pm): £10 per booking
Suitable for one parent or guardian attending with a child aged 10 to 14.
Session 2 (3.00pm): £10 per person
Open to young people and adults.
Booking Information
Spaces are limited, and advance booking is strongly recommended.

About CasildART (Organiser)
CasildART Contemporary CIC is a not-for-profit Black-led organisation founded to foster a more inclusive and supportive creative culture by addressing the lack of representation of Black artists in museums, commercial galleries, and fine art institutions. We aim to raise awareness and increase the visibility of their work, amplify their voices and give freedom to their creative expression.
Connection is at the heart of everything that we do. We aim to bring artworks together with the critical conversations that flourish through and around them, intersecting diverse themes, ideas, and cultures. We invite you to join our community of artists, art collectors, and art lovers and experience the best of contemporary Black art, transforming the way we see the world.