In Volume I, Tomasito reveals the time tested conga method which he himself studied with "Changuito" and other master congueros at the ENA conservatory in Havana. Volume I starts at the absolute beginning and is designed for the person who has never touched the congas, but is also of great value to the advanced player who wishes to understand the foundation and rudiments of the approach that has allowed the ENA and the other Havana conservatories to consistently turn out so many world class congueros each year.

Volume I begins with simple exercises to develop technique and systematically works its way through rudiments and 'recursos' for use in solos and fills and basic rhythm patterns such as Salsa, Cha-Cha and Bolero. These are presented using the unique Step by Step online video Method, which enables the student to learn the patterns by watching the video and imitating Tomasito as he builds the patterns stroke by stroke. This, combined with a special type of notation designed to be simple for those who don't read music, results in a conga course that really works, rather than just another reference book to add to the bookshelf!

Timba

Basic Hand Position and Posture

Exercise to Develop Proper Posture

Position of the Legs and Feet

The Five Basic Strokes

Open (abierto)

Muff (presionado)

Closed Slap (tapado)

Open Slap (semi-tapado)

Bass (bajo)

Exercises

Develop the Basic Strokes

Tip Stroke and Manoteo

Rudiments and Soloing
Marcha Exercises

Manateo

Picoteo (Masacote)

Marcha Exercises

Marchas
Recursos
Clave
Marchas Written in 8th Notes
Tomas Cruz - Selected Discography