Beyond the Mountains, There are More Mountains

 

To begin understanding Vodou drumming, one may begin in Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti. This is where you can find more standardized drum music. With some exceptions, the majority of the Port-au-Prince rhythms can be placed into two categories: Rada and Petwo. There is an incredible diversity and depth involved in Vodou drumming, with each section of the country having its own unique style, often not sharing techniques with the others. 

A beautiful Kreyol proverb in Haiti says "Dèyè mòn genyen mòn", which means "Beyond the mountains, there are more mountains." Although literally referencing the topography of this mountainous Carribean island, this proverb also articulated the concept that the mysteries never end, and that what lies beyond is unknowable. Counting mountains or drum beats in the magical land would be an exercise in futility, with it being better to simply appreciate their infinite beauty.