CLASSES & EVENTS
Feel the Rhythm, Join the Circle
IN-PERSON CLASSES
Beginner Classes — Start Your Journey
Your first encounter with rhythm!
Perfect for absolute beginners, this course introduces you to the djembe in a playful and supportive environment.
You’ll learn:
- How to hold and play the djembe (posture, hand positions, tone technique)
- Basic West African rhythms and their cultural roots
- Simple exercises to develop sound, timing, and confidence
- Singing traditional songs that accompany the rhythms
📍 Offered in: Saint-Mathias-sur-Richelieu, Drummondville, Durham-Sud, Longueuil, and Montreal.
Reserve your spot via email or call us at 450-775-5233
Level 2 & 3: Initiated and Intermediate Classes — Deepen Your Practice
Take your drumming further!
For those with some experience, these classes will help you expand your technique, musicality, and understanding of the rich traditions behind the rhythms.
You’ll explore:
- Intermediate djembe technique, hand speed & rhythm complexity
- Traditional West African rhythms at intermediate level
- Dundun introduction (bass drums played in ensemble)
- Longer rhythm introductions and transitions (breaks)
- Group dynamics, listening, and playing as one
- Singing and stage preparation for school performances
📍 Offered in: Saint-Mathias-sur-Richelieu, Drummondville, Durham-Sud, Longueuil, and Montreal.
Reserve your spot via email or call us at 450-775-5233
Advanced Classes — Let Your Rhythm Speak
For the seasoned drummer ready to level up.
This class is for you if you want to refine your soloing, master complex polyrythms, and explore advanced dundun phrases.
You’ll dive into:
- Advanced West African rhythms for djembe
- Intermediate to advanced dundun arrangements
- Improvised and traditional djembe soloing
- Speed, finesse, and intricate phrasing
- Preparing group pieces for performances and festivals
📍 Offered in: Saint-Mathias-sur-Richelieu and Drummondville.
Reserve your spot via email or call us at 450-775-5233
Need more information?
Meet Your teacher
Éric Lafontaine, Founder of Tam Tam Mania | Djembe player, rhythm lover, teacher from the heart
If you’ve ever dreamed of learning the djembe in a place that feels like home and transports you to the heart of West Africa, you’re in the right place.
Éric Lafontaine, founder of Tam Tam Mania, is not only a skilled percussionist with over two decades of experience — he’s a beloved teacher, community-builder, and lifelong student of rhythm. His journey spans more than 20 years of immersion in the rich musical traditions of West Africa, shaped by formative encounters with master drummers like Dartagnan Camara and Famoudou Konaté.
But Éric’s greatest talent? Making you feel the drum. Whether it’s your first time touching a djembe or your hundredth, he brings an energy that’s deeply joyful, down-to-earth, and undeniably contagious.
His classes aren’t just about learning notes and patterns. They’re about connecting — to the beat, to each other, and to something much bigger.
Having led hundreds of classes and workshops over the years — from intimate circles to large community events — Éric has crafted his own style of teaching: intuitive, inclusive, and full of life. His background in education helps, but it’s his heart that leads.
He’s also the kind of teacher who remembers your name, celebrates your small wins, and makes sure you walk out of class with a smile — even if your hands are a little sore from drumming your heart out. :)
Whether you’re looking to learn, connect, or just let loose…
Come discover why so many people call Éric’s classes their happy place. You’ll learn much more than rhythm — you’ll discover the joy of playing in community.
Ready to find your rhythm?
Join us in class. The beat is waiting for you.
