Of course I got a DVD to learn different rhythms on bongos-for meditative purposes,I do spontaneous drumming,also known as "Spirit Drumming". But- to jam with others on acoustic instruments,one needs to know different patterns- like the calypso rhythm,for example. I asked a well known ukulele player if hand drummers/percussionists were welcome at uke jams. "We love it when they come!" she told me with great enthusiasm. Only one time did it go awry- that was in the case of a beginning bongo player. So- if you're a ukulele player who's looking to also go into percussion-be certain you really have some knowledge under your belt before asking to jam in a group. I'd suggest playing with a friend or with CDs so that any mistakes on your part won't be any big deal,and you'll spare yourself possible embarrassment.(and jamming with your fave tunes can be a blast!)
What I love about playing bongos and ukulele is that they're highly portable,and I can carry them myself with ease. No asking for help,they don't take up much room in the car if you're traveling,and you can play both quietly!
A suggestion I'd like to make is if you decide to get bongos or any other drum for hand percussion,if you're around small children get an inexpensive kids model drum for them to beat on. That way you can keep your "good set" out of their reach and not appear to be rude.
Case in point- recently we had some new neighbors move next door to us-non musicians,and they have a young and highly energized son. I had just gotten a very used set of pre tuned bongos when the mother of the boy mentioned that her hubby wanted to bring the boy over next time he heard me playing so the son could play my drums. I had just picked up another pair of tunable bongos-the Tycoon set,and no way was I about to let any small child or adult play them. I had planned on selling the pre tuned set,but on hearing this I decided to keep them and use them as "porch drums" in the event that the father brings the boy over if I'm playing them outside.
Non musicians don't understand that drums are instruments that require as much TLC as say,a ukulele or a guitar. Because drums are hit with a stick or struck with the hands,it's assumed drums can "take a beating" which isn't true. So-if you go this route and small children will be over,do get an inexpensive set or tell the parents to get their child his or her own drum and bring it with them. (Remo makes wonderful hand drums for kids!)