The Drummer and the Clever Child

While out walking a newly found path, Wajanja Msichana happened on a fine three drum set and, seeing no one around, tested its sound. What a fine sound it had. Each one had a different tone and yet they complimented and supported each other. Compelled, Wajanja Msichana started to play them. It was then, that the drums owner returned. These were no ordinary drums; nor were they owned by an ordinary drummer. These belonged to Drum Master, Tumbili Ngoma. Ngoma listened in silence to Wajanja's intricate beat, "flib-er de jib clap clap da bipp snap de happ." He was captivated by it and interrupted Wajanja with a clap. Wajanja' stopped and turned to see the source of the noise. Upon seeing who it was, she lowered her head in respect and started to back away. "Wait! Ngoma said, though it was more like an order than a request. "Why? replied Wajanja as a curious smile crossed her lips. "That rhythm. How many times can you repeat without error?" Oh! You want to go there do you? Wajanja replied with a laugh. Picking up the drumsticks, Wajanja played, flib-er de jib clap clap da bipp snap de happ; flib-er de jib clap clap da bipp snap de happ. The first ten repetitions were identical in volume, tempo and emotion. One might almost call them mechanical, then, it all changed. The volume changed with each repetition. Some, quiet as a baby's heartbeat; some, louder than the loudest storm. The emotional content brought laughter and tears to Ngoma. He stood transfixed. After the 150th repetition Wajanja abruptly stopped and set down the sticks. She smiled a clever smile, and, with a twinkle in her eyes, she turned and continued down the path. Ngoma also smiled, as he had learned a lesson today.

Wajanja

"clever" in Swahili

Msichana girl" in Swahili Tumbili "monkey" in Swahili

Ngoma

"drummer" in Swahili