FAQs

What kinds of classes do you offer?

We offer:

Weekly group classes in the West African percussion traditions (Djembe & Dunun) in-person (Cary/Raleigh/triangle) and online.
Private one-on-one lessons tailored to your pace and goals.
Corporate/team-building/large-group drum-circle experiences.
Instrument sales, custom drums, repair & maintenance (via our shop).

Do I need any prior experience or musical background?

Nope! You’re welcome whether you’ve never held a drum or you’ve been playing for years. Our group classes explicitly say “No Prior Experience Necessary”.

What ages or skill levels do you serve?

We’re mixed-level. In group classes you’ll likely find beginner through advanced players playing together (with parts and progressions to challenge everyone).
We also offer private lessons so you can zero in on whatever level you’re at.

Where are the in-person classes held—and can I attend online?

Yes to both.

In-person: Cary, NC (and surrounding Triangle region: Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill) for weekly group drum classes.
Online: We support online lessons. (If you’re outside the Triangle region, you can book with us.)
If you have a preferred spot/location (even remote), ask and we’ll see how we can accommodate.

What is the cost / how do I pay and is there a drop-in option?

The weekly group class example: $25 for a single class pass.
Monthly membership (“class passport”) option: flat rate ($60/month in this example) for unlimited within that timeframe.
Payment is via online link (Square) for ease. Non-refundable, though some transfers/gift-card options may apply.
For private lessons or corporate engagements, pricing varies—please contact us for a customized quote.

Do I need to bring my own instrument? Are rentals available?

In many cases:

For group classes: rental instruments are available.
For private lessons or if you want your own instrument: we can assist you in choosing a drum (or you can purchase from our shop).
If online: ideally you have your instrument, but if you don’t, we’ll work with whatever you have (or suggest options).

What if I miss a class / how do cancellations work?

Missed classes with a monthly membership are generally not refunded—so if you sign up for the month, it’s a flat rate and you’re encouraged to attend as many as you like in that period.

For drop-in/single class passes: non-refundable, but they may be transferrable to a friend.
For private lessons: please notify us ahead of time so we can reschedule.

What is your teaching philosophy / what makes HoloRhythm different?

We believe in more than “just playing music.” At HoloRhythm:

Our mission: to cultivate mindfulness of oneself and joyfulness in community through music.
We root our teaching in traditional West African rhythms (djembe, dunun) but invite creative expression, community connection, and personal transformation.
Environment & community matter: we strive to create spaces (physical or virtual) where music connects people, supports wellness, and fosters belonging—not just technique.
Flexibility: Mixed levels, multiple paths (group, private, corporate), online & in-person.

Can I attend just one class to try it out?

Yes — the drop-in single class pass is designed for that. You can join a class to see if it’s a fit before committing to a monthly membership.

What should I wear / bring / know before class?

Wear comfortable clothing that allows for arm movement (drumming uses your whole upper body).
Bring water, maybe a small towel if you tend to sweat (drumming is a movement + rhythm workout!).
If you bring your own drum: make sure it’s tuned and in good shape. If you rent, arrive 5-10 minutes early so we can set you up.
For online: make sure your camera and mic are working, you have enough space to move/strike the drum safely.

Are there age limits / can kids join?

We’re flexible. Many classes are adult-friendly, but if you’re a younger student (teen etc) and you show interest, we can explore a child/youth option or private lesson. Let’s chat about the best fit.

What happens in a typical group class?

A typical session might include:

Warm-up (body, hands, rhythm)
Technique refresh (bass, tone, slap, etc)
Learning or refining a West African rhythm/accompaniment
Ensemble playing (everyone plays together, with parts)
Listening awareness, solo/lead opportunities, improvisation
Optional short sharing/closing circle to connect the group.

Can I perform / join events / go deeper?

Yes! We encourage students who want to go deeper:

Opportunities for drum-circle events, community gatherings
Private lessons for soloing or deeper technique
Corporate or team-building facilitation if you want to lead or perform
Shop & instrument access for drummers who want their own gear.
We’ll feature special workshops/retreats as they arise (stay tuned).

How do you support online students / what’s required for online lessons?

You’ll need a stable internet connection, camera (laptop or phone) and preferably a mic so we can hear you clearly.
If you don’t have an instrument, we’ll work with you (body percussion, available gear, or instrument purchase guidance).
We’ll send you a link/zoom or platform invite ahead of time.
We’ll share learning materials (video, audio) as needed.

What is your cancellation / refund policy?

For group classes: single passes are non-refundable; monthly membership cannot be prorated if you miss, so we encourage consistent attendance.
For private lessons: if you cancel less than X hours (you’ll set), a fee may apply.
For special events/retreats: event-specific terms will apply.
We believe in fairness and mutual respect—if you ever feel stuck, let us know and we’ll work with you.

Does HoloRhythm do corporate or large-group events?

Yes. We design bespoke drum-circle experiences for teams, workshops, festivals, gatherings of up to 300 people (or more, by arrangement).
We bring instruments, facilitate rhythm sessions, and craft an experience of connection, listening and creativity.

Are there any sustainability or community / environmental aspects of HoloRhythm?

Absolutely — since you care about health of people and planet:

We source drums and accessories mindfully
Our community-music focus means we prioritize access, diversity, wellness.
We aim to partner with schools, nonprofits and community groups.

How can I buy a drum or accessories via your shop?

Visit our Shop section (pre-built djembes, blank shells, accessories).
If you want something custom-built: contact us for availability and lead time.
If you need maintenance or tuning: we also provide drum repair service.

What if I’m local vs remote — are there different options?

Local (Triangle/North Carolina area): in-person group classes, rental instruments, community drum circles.
Remote/Online or outside the region: online lessons, shipping of instruments or suggestions for local gear, virtual ensemble options.
We’ll work to make it seamless regardless of where you are.

How do I register / when do new sessions start?

To register for a weekly group class: click the “Register Now” button on the Learn to Drum page.
New students can enroll any time of year (classes are ongoing).
Private lessons: contact us at holorhythm@gmail.com or phone 336-624-2237 to schedule.

What happens after I sign up—what should I expect?

Short answer: We’ll send you a welcome email with next steps.

What if I want to quit / pause my membership?

For monthly memberships: you can cancel anytime before the next billing cycle.
For drop-in: no obligation.
Private lessons: simply let us know and we’ll determine the best course of action.

How do you handle health, safety, and public-health related concerns or general wellness in class?

In-person: We ask that you stay home if you’re feeling unwell, and we’ll provide good ventilation, cleaning of communal drums/hardware as appropriate.
Online: you participate from your safe space.
Drumming is physical — warm up, play responsibly, and we encourage you to hydrate and move safely.
As a wellness-focused practice, we respect your body & limits. If you have any health issues (wrist, shoulder, hearing), let us know and we’ll adapt.

What kind of progress / outcomes can I expect?

You’ll walk away with:

A stronger sense of rhythm, hand technique (bass, tone, slap).
Ability to play West African rhythms on djembe + dunun with a group.
Improved listening, ensemble awareness, coordination, confidence.
If you commit: performance or ensemble participation.
Enhanced connection to self + community (beyond just “drumming”). Because we believe rhythm is transformational.

Can I gift classes or buy for someone else?

Yes, we offer class pass/gift-card options (e.g., single pass, monthly membership) that can be given to someone. Just contact us and ask for “gift enrollment”.

Who are the instructors / what are their qualifications?

Our lead instructor is Kasey Jones, who has deep grounding in West African tradition and certified to teach through Tam Tam Mandingue Djembe Academy. Kasey brings a depth of experience in community teaching, broad musical pedagogy. He also teaches many styles of music and instruments beyond the drum: Guitar, Ukulele, Mandolin, Bass and many more.

What is the vibe / community like at HoloRhythm?

Expect friendly, inclusive, joyful, challenging—but never intimidating. We value personal growth, peer connection, respect for tradition, fun and human-first rhythm.

We’re not just about performance; we’re about joyfulness, mindfulness, community, and rhythm that transforms body & soul.

How does HoloRhythm support sustainability, social wellness and community?

We’re committed to:

Making our programming accessible (community drum circles, outreach).
Using instruments/materials mindfully.
Engaging with local schools/organizations to serve underserved populations.
Framing music not just as entertainment but as community building, mindfulness practice.

Can I host a private event / workshop through you?

Yes, we love private events.! We curate custom drum-circle workshops, retreats, team-builds, events. You bring the group-size, date, goal; we bring the instruments, facilitators, energy. Let’s talk.