Drum Circles

The drum circle begins an energizing session or percussion instruments that leads into the introduction of the drums. Interactive and engaging through out the session. I offer both recreational drumming and therapeutic drumming. So what is the difference?

Recreational drumming is designed for groups to come together and enjoy the magic of music making! The goal is just to have fun and share the empowerment of rhythm. Perfect for birthday parties (children and adults) family reunions, celebrations, and dinner events.

Therapeutic drum circles involves reflection, gaining insight, and creating metaphors for healing. Issues addressed include grief work, depression, chronic pain, anxiety, and memory loss. Therapeutic drumming is great for teaching social skills and self confidence for children with autism or other children with social challenges. Perfect for those living with dementia! Promotes social interaction, memory stimulation, practice motor skills, improves mood and with an ocean drum and rainstick, we do a guided imagery to close the circle.

Children drum circles are called with the beat of the gathering drum. Once settled, the children will learn the parts of the drum and the three notes of the drum. Children will introduce themselves through the drum and circle is under way! Children learn "call and response" play a solo performance, and take turns leading the circle and dance with the beat of the drum. We'll play hide and seek with musical fruit, and play other musical games. Children will play Djembe drums, hand drums, percussion instruments, and we end with a rainstorm with a thunder tube, rain sticks, and an ocean drum.

I have been a Health Rhythm Drumming Facilitator for over fifteen years and have found that it is one of the best activities to engage children (and adults!) allowing self express, while encouraging social interaction and promoting a physical activity all while having fun. I have been working with professionals, agencies, children, adults, seniors, persons living with memory loss and families for over 35 years as a recreation therapist. I believe that play is as important for adults as it is for children and through recreation we meet out social, physical, and expressive needs.
Perfect activity for conferences, family reunions, senior programming, memory care facilities, children and adult birthday parties, or for an intimate evening with friends.

Chairs are desirable, but seated on the ground is fine as some children enjoy standing or sitting on drums.