As someone who has performed in many percussion ensemble situations over the years, I can only begin to describe the feelings of peace and empowerment that group drumming sessions can create. It really is something you have to experience for yourself to fully understand.
For those who want to read all about the scientific bases describing the healing power of group drumming, take a deep dive into this recent study sponsored by the Royal College of Music in London and published by Public Library of Science.
Here are a key excerpt to consider:
This study demonstrates that group drumming leads to enhanced psychological states, specifically less depression and greater social resilience, across six weeks compared with a control group, extending the findings of our preliminary study.
First, a huge thank you to Emily Spahr and Caryn Cziriak for facilitating groove’s first drum circle. We’re all looking forward to doing another one in November, and that date will be identified shortly.
We had an enthusiastic group tonight, and it was a blast to watch the interaction and communication happening between the players without any verbal cues at all. This is why music in general and percussion specifically is such a powerful force.
Here are some images from tonight’s drum circle…
