Drum circles consist of several participants, arranged in a circle, each improvising on various rhythmic instruments. No previous musical experience is required as there is no wrong way to play in a drum circle. The focus of a drum circle is on exploring the sounds of your instrument and how it fits in with the rest of the group around you. The drum circle can be a very personal experience, but can also encourage community and teamwork at the same time.
The Grateful Dead’s Mickey Hart describes drum circles as “… a huge jam session. The ultimate goal is not precise rhythmic articulation or perfection of patterned structure, but the ability to entrain and reach the state of a group mind. It is built on cooperation in the groove, but with little reference to any classic styles. So this is a work in constant progress, a phenomenon of the new rhythm culture emerging here in the West.”
Good question! Several community, medical, educational and corporate organizations have found drum circles effective for healing, stress reduction, team building and even increased productivity. Drum circles can be beneficial for staff, patients, clients, families and community members.
For an example of a successful corporate drum circle experience, check out the Toyota Drum Circle. “The Toyota Drum Circle is an extraordinary, first-of-its-kind experiment in the use of on-going music making for corporate teambuilding, stress-reduction, and change management. And the drummers you may hear aren’t musicians and performers; they are associates of Toyota, drumming to build the level of teamwork in their respective departments.” – Christine Stevens, MSW, MT-BC and Drum Circle Facilitator
We currently offer two different drum circle experiences through CATPB. Check them out below and contact us to schedule a customized drum circle for your organization.
Rhythms of the World: A Therapeutic Drumming Workshop – Experience instruments and rhythms from around the world in an up-beat, energetic group setting. No previous music experience is required. This workshop is designed to promote team building, support, improve self-confidence, and productivity. This workshop is appropriate for any medical, education, community or corporate setting.
Healing Drum Circle – This workshop is designed to increase support and healing for caregivers, family members, or individuals with medical, emotional, or physical needs. Interactive drumming, music and imagery, and music for relaxation in a supportive, relaxing environment. This workshop is appropriate for any setting.