How to Play the Afrocuban 6/8 (or 12/8 Bembe) Clave

Cuban folkloric music uses the 6/8 clave on many rhythms such as Bembe and Rumba Columbia. Sometimes called Afro Clave it is played on the guataca (hoe blade) traditionally as demonstrated in this video.

[@hatchet_jackdrumhack1819]

Thank You 😀. What Method Book are you using in this Video?

[@usrumbero]

These are material based on personal research and study.

[@hatchet_jackdrumhack1819]

us rumbero us rumbero us rumbero Thanks for your reply, but I’m confused. Also, your Video Title is confusing. U mention “6/8 Afro Clave”. In the Sub-Title, U mention” Guataca Part for Bembe, “ etc. The Two are different parts. This is Stated in the Method Book Page U show in This Video. What Method Book are You Showing in Your Video Please?

[@usrumbero]

Hatchet_Jack DrumHack The guataca part refers to the instrument used whereas the 6/8 clave is the beat that is played on it. All the material including the writing is my own. We use the colloquial terms 6/8 or afro clave or bembe clave sometimes interchangeably during performance lessons. In terms of musicological theory you can say the bembe clave has two extra notes than the afro clave (aka basic rumba clave when performed in a 6/8 feel). So this is a more syncopated version of the basic 6/8 clave. This 6/8 bell pattern is also used in columbia, guiro, and other rhythms.

[@hatchet_jackdrumhack1819]

us rumbero Thank You. You say “All the material including the writing is your own”. That looks like a published book. Have you written a Method Book covering these topics? If so, where can I buy a copy?