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| Name: | Aleigha |
| E-mail address: | aleigha@yahoo.ca |
| Homepage URL: | http://waser.rantweb.com/lasix/lasix-renal-scan.html |
| Comments: | Our partners : <a rel="dofollow" href="http://gomaga.20m.com/klonopin/panic-disorder.html">panic disorder</a> is about panic disorder... <a rel="dofollow" href="http://wardal.canadianwebs.com/famvir/cheap-medicines.html">cheap medicines</a> is about cheap medicines... Great site, lotsa funny links and stuff. I enjoyed my stay and will come back again. You can visit my sites our site too. |
| Name: | Marge |
| E-mail address: | mmmeluch@sbcglobal.net |
| Comments: | Will be Clearwater this fall. Wish I could bring my drum with me, but will be there for the experience. |
| Name: | Kirsten |
| E-mail address: | Kirsten@change.to |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.FullMoonHollywood.t35.com |
| Comments: | Hello Everyone,
I just put a new page up for the Full Moon Drum Circle on Hollywood Beach here in Florida!! There is also information on other drum circles in and around Hollywood. Hope to see you guys soon! Many Blessings, Kirsten |
| Name: | Stephen Wayne Dodge |
| E-mail address: | stephenwdodge @yahoo.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://Myspace.com/cantdodgethis1 |
| Comments: | Every Sunday 4pm-7pm at Scarlet & Grey Cafe, 2203 N. HIGH St. Columbus, Ohio hosted by Stephen Dodge a.k.a. The Phlatt Rascal (solo guitar+vocal+drums with feet) a.k.a. The Devil (Stand-up Comedy)a.k.a. "Can't Dodge This" (Rock 'n' Roll Band with a raw, lean 'n' hungry, 21st-Century sound).
Bring your Djembe, Congas, Bongos, Tambourine, Timbales, Cabasa, Shekere, Maracas, Bata, Surdo, etc., etc. Nothing but a party. Come as you are. No pressure. All are welcome, beginner's to pro! (614) 595-2971 stephenwdodge@yahoo.com Help is needed getting the word out about this new jam starting January 11th, 2009. |
| Name: | Ann |
| E-mail address: | ann@prodigy.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.galeon.com/cravia/lortab/lortab-10-650.html |
| Comments: | I love the site!!! Keep up the good work. Thanx for all the pics and info! <a rel="dofollow" href="http://nonat.8k.com/diet-pill/adipex-diet-pill.html" title="adipex diet pill">adipex diet pill</a> ... <a rel="dofollow" href="http://www.freewebs.com/llanas/hydrocodone/hydrocodone-prescription.html" title="hydrocodone prescription">hydrocodone prescription</a> ... webmaster. |
| Name: | groovist |
| E-mail address: | rhythmking_99@yahoo.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.groovism.net |
| Comments: | Whenever praying, singing, dancing, meditating, or anything approaching using your musical or religious power, join The One by going to www.groovism.net |
| Name: | Jef Lawlor, Media Director |
| E-mail address: | info@lakeworthdowntown.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://lakeworthscene.com |
| Comments: | I'd like to invite you to download the SE Florida Special Drum Circle Commemorative Edition from Lake Worth Scene.
It's FREE and in COLOR! www.lakeworthscene.com |
| Name: | Peggi Walker |
| E-mail address: | peggiwalker@gmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.urbandrumming.com |
| Comments: | Sunday June 22, 2008 - we are gathering for our first MOBILE drum jam on one of San Diego City Sightseeing buses (private rental)! We will travel around San Diego's Mission Bay Parks playing a variety of rhythms, celebrating summer & sharing this unique experience with people from all walks of life & ethnicities!
Visit www.urbandrumming.com/News.html for more info Blessed Beats! |
| Name: | Hari Berzins |
| E-mail address: | hari@thenewdaycafe.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.thenewdaycafe.com |
| Comments: | Hello Drumming Community. We are honored to host a monthly community drum circle at New Day Cafe. Please join us Friday, May 23rd, 2008, 7 - 10pm. Come early for a delicious and healthy dinner and drum the night away outside. Bring a chair and your rhythm! We have lots of drums to share.
New Day Cafe 3195 13th Street Saint Cloud, FL 34769 407-891-2100 |
| Name: | Hari Berzins |
| E-mail address: | hari@thenewdaycafe.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.thenewdaycafe.com |
| Comments: | Hello Drumming Community. We are honored to host a monthly community drum circle at New Day Cafe. Please join us Friday, May 23rd, 2008, 7 - 10pm. Come early for a delicious and healthy dinner and drum the night away outside. Bring a chair and your rhythm! We have lots of drums to share.
New Day Cafe 3195 13th Street Saint Cloud, FL 34769 407-891-2100 |
| Name: | Mitch |
| E-mail address: | mitchdrum@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I live in Fountain, CO, and am looking for fellow skin beaters to drum with. Most all circles are farther than I can go at this tme. |
| Name: | gary gallerie |
| E-mail address: | gallerie48@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | any drum circles in Las Vegas, NV? |
| Name: | DrEonn |
| E-mail address: | dreonn@gmail.com |
| Comments: | I am putting together a drumming circle in Brooklyn NY. This drumming circle is to support My daughters school bands trip to italy. It will be held at the school gym. the perfect place to play durring the winter. the door donation is $10 and it will go tot he Italy trip fund. the Parents are making food and deserts to sell as well. It will be held january 5th 2008 at 11:00am. Please email me if you are interested and I will send you the address. Please bring you appitite and your drums.
Thank you |
| Name: | Renee |
| E-mail address: | gphiboston@gmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.tastesafetyharbor.com |
| Comments: | Hey Guys! My cafe has just started a drum circle on Wednesday nights from 6pm-9pm at Taste Safety Harbor. The drum circle takes place in our courtyard, around the fountain, so it is a really cool setting!
Stop by and join in, or just watch! Make sure to bring your own drum. All ages are welcome. We also sell organic beers and wines! For more info, you can find visit our website and view the drum circle flyer. www.tastesafetyharbor.com Feel free to email me with questions! |
| Name: | Sassydrummerlady |
| E-mail address: | wearethedrums@comcast.net |
| Comments: | Hello Everyone, I was visiting this website and wanted to let you know of our upcoming event. People are coming to Colorado from all over the country for our 8th Annual Drum Gathering. There is no charge and it's open to all. It will be held Saturday February 2nd, 2008, 10-6PM at:
Hillside Community Center 925 S. Institute Colorado Springs, CO 80903 Call for more info: (303)450-1245 or email gillthedrummerman@hotmail.com Come celebrate the rhythms of the drum, and lets party the day away. |
| Name: | Sheeba |
| E-mail address: | zargarita@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Finally made it to Dunedin Brewery Drum Circle! It is all Shannon has said it is... and then some. Really diverse group of talented souls.
Thanks for making me welcome! But, then, what else would I expect from such souls? Namaste |
| Name: | Lauren Woznicki |
| E-mail address: | Lwoznicki01@verizon.net |
| Comments: | Just moved over from the east coast. Used to go to drum circles over there and am so excited to find some over this way. |
| Name: | Susan Helms |
| E-mail address: | Shelms01@tampabay.rr.com |
| Comments: | I met Shannon at the Suncoast Center last Saturday during a drum circle demonstration. I am sold. I don't have a drum but want to attend a circle as does my daughter, a friend, my sister and several other people we've talked to about it. Please let me know when the next circle happens in the St. Pete area. The Treasure Island beach circle sounds good, but we're usually busy Sunday nights. The Dunedin circle sounds like the best for us, but I didn't understand the days and times. |
| Name: | giff greymon |
| E-mail address: | paleravn@yahoo.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://None |
| Comments: | It seems we both are drummers. We also have something else in common. Can you guess what it is? Total fluke. I never heard of you before. It was not planned, Kinda weird ain't it? |
| Name: | Kimm Armitage |
| E-mail address: | karmitage@cityofsafetyharbor.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.cityofsafetyharbor.com |
| Comments: | Attention Florida Drummers
Day long Drum Circle at the Safety Harbor Seafood Festival Here's the info: The Safety Harbor Seafood Festival takes place waterfront at the Safety Harbor Marina on Saturday, March 3rd from Noon-10pm. This fundraising event features a day full of live music, arts & crafts vendors, a children's play area, guided kayak Eco-Tours of upper Tampa Bay, 2 kite clubs with amazing kite displays and plenty of seafood (and other food for the land lovers). Don't miss the fireworks show at 9:30pm! One of the festival highlights will be a day long drum circle courtesy of Drum Stretchers. Proceeds benefit the Safety Harbor Library Foundation and the Safety Harbor Scholarship Program (provides scholarships for underprivileged kids to attend summer camp programs). Remember to bring your blankets & beach chairs. Admission to the event is FREE. Music Lineup: David Bearce Acoustic Rock Calypso Sound Reggae Kudzu Crawlers Americana/Jam Band Haole Cats Surf Music |
| Name: | ANDY LALINO "BUSCH GARDENS BELLY DANCE SHOW" |
| E-mail address: | andylbebop@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | HI SHANNON, GREAT TALKING WITH YOU ON THE PHONE. THE DRUM CIRCLE IS A FABULOUS PROJECT. "DRUMS RULE"........KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK! ANDY "L" |
| Name: | Drum Circles as Music Therapy |
| Comments: | Why use drum circles?
Drum Circles as a Music Therapy Method Most expecially the information garnered by Mr. Armstrong in his intern experiments as outlined in the segment "Why Use Drum Circles" supports everything I have ever read in the area and my own decidedly non-clinical observations as well. I found particularly useful the distinction made between "therapy" and "therapeutic", and the implication that when drum circles of the same composition (in terms of people) meet weekly over a period of time, the one can become the other. I was also glad to have been reminded of the fact that "because the sustained repetition of a steady beat brings people together physically, emotionally, and mentally" rhythmic entrainment ensues that abets various kinds of healing (spiritual, emotional, even physical). In my own experience, after one such session a teen-aged woman who accompanied her mother to a group in which we were drumming as an aid to meditation, was, at the end when I asked for feedback, prompted to share with the group that she had been molested by a family friend, and that was the previously undisclosed seat of her "acting out" . She said that she felt such trust in the group and such positive energy that she was motivated to "let go". Another, much older woman in the group who had had a similar experience, immediately supported her, as did the group as a whole. I have seen both mother and daughter periodically since, and that one experience indeed marked the end of the daughter's self destructive behavior and the beginning of healing. |
| Name: | Drum Circle in Rhode Island Ixsnay |
| Comments: | Hey Tom, sorry to hear that. I'll remone the drum circle listing in RI for you. Out of curiosity, where was it being held?
I've had a regular 3hr weekly gig for a year now, and maybe I could offer you a few suggestions? I'd like to see you get another one going somewhere else. What about one of those Eklectic clubs, poets, pubs, coffee houses, wine & cigar, arts center, sort of thing. These kinds of gigs are easy to get going. I tell them, you let me do it for a couple weeks, and if it works, and you make money, then I'd like to be paid for my work. 10% of sales is the norm. Then there's the minor issue that you have to go out,work hard, and prove it. LoL But then you got start doing the real work. promoting, and fast! Got to get to it and start recruting. Everything, everywhere. Thre's lots you can do on the web with groups, myspace, etc. But you also have to recruit from the local drum circles near you. Make up & Bring flyers. Drop off flyers anywhere music or arts oriented. Music stores, ask the drum dept, if I can leave my flyers out, I will refer people to you, who ask me where to get a drum. Dig it. Tie in with an animal shelter to have a dog adoption day. There is all kinds of ways you can create a buzz in the neighborhood with a nice grand opening drum circle night. Brum pa da pum pum pum. Try to get another circle going dude. Even if it's you and a few curious newbies. They will learn fast, and it will build up quick, you'll see. A lot of times you just have to proove to people a drum circle will work. Who knows, you might end up working a bit more as a facilitator. Let me know how it goes man. Peace! Shannon Thomas Terceira <tterceira@cox.net> wrote: Hello, The first Friday drum circle in Wakefield , RI facilitated by me has been cancelled due to lack of interest. Please remove from your listing and thanks for the listing. Good luck and keep the beat, Thomas Terceira |
| Name: | The healing power of drum circles |
| Comments: | Here are some wise thoughts from other drummers about the healing power of community drum circles:
When you take your drum to a rhythm circle and play it with your community, healing happens. It does not matter if the group's focus is purely social or ritualistic. If you come and drum, the healing is compounded because everyone is putting their spirit into their drum, and their hearts are open. You get and give a rhythmical massage that is compounded by the number of people in the circle and the energy they are sharing with each other.~ Arthur Hull A circle has no beginning and no end. In a circle all points are equal. In a drum circle all players are equal, regardless of musical ability. The energy from each player travels through the circle; the energy transmitted as rhythmic vibration, and is supported by the intention and spirit of each person. The instruments played may have originated from many cultures and traditions, many leading back in time to the tribal roots of African drumming. Each percussion instrument resonates with it's own specific vibration; the bells and shakers speaking to the higher chakras and the deep drums to the lower chakras. The group vibration speaks beyond conscious thought, deep into each person's subconscious, into their bodies, and into their souls. When the pulse succeeds in creating entrainment amongst the players, the circle is intimately connected beyond words or logic. A sense of oneness, and pure joy may occur. A connection to being part of the human race may occur. A connection to mother Earth may occur. This healing shift of consciousness occurs according to the willingness of each participant to be lost in the rhythm, yet not losing awareness of the rhythm. To reach this place one must let go of any thoughts of judging their playing or the playing of others, or any perception of being judged. A place where ego and every day concerns cease to exist. That is the magic of the drum circle. ~David Johannes One of the most powerful aspects of drumming and the reason people have done it since the beginning of being human is that it changes people's consciousness. Through rhythmic repetition of ritual sounds, the body, the brain and the nervous system are energized and transformed. When a group of people play a rhythm for an extended period of time, their brain waves become entrained to the rhythm and they have a shared brain wave state. The longer the drumming goes on, the more powerful the entrainment becomes. It's really the oldest holy communion. ~ Layne Redmond For the shaman the other world is shaped like a tree, the World Tree. Beating a drum or shaking a rattle, a shaman sings the songs that alert his spirit allies that they are needed. His trance deepens until his soul slips out of his body and flies across the world to the Tree that stands at the center of the universe. Then he begins to climb. If he goes up into the branches toward the leaves, his destination is the heavens, culminating in the Lord of the Universe. If he goes down into the roots of the World Tree, then his destination is the underworld. For the shaman, the drum is not so much a musical instrument as a vehicle for transportation. Most frequently in Siberia, it is characterized as a horse that the shaman rides to the World Tree, though it can also be a boat (with the drumstick becoming the oar) or a bow (with his drumstick doubling as the arrow). ~ Mickey Hart A group may happen by chance; a circle happens by intent. The circle is a structure, which is rich in symbolism. It is not a pyramid, or a box, or even a spiral. You can think of it in the sense of electricity. Each participant acts like a link in the circuit, as a generator, transmitter, or resistor. Participants influence the "energy" of the circle by their attitude and focus. A circle also expresses the image of a container. We think in terms of inside and outside the circle. What is within the circle is held by each member, and by the whole. In shamanism there is a saying: "The moon is a circle, the sun is a circle, the Earth is a circle, the drum is a circle, and we are a circle." A circle is a special kind of group, not because of what is done, but how it is done. ~ Holly Blue Hawkins When we drum, we connect with the Creator and experience our natural childlike innocence through drumming, rhythm and movement. This form of play facilitates spiritual expansion because drumming naturally brings one into the relaxed alpha state of meditation. Usually the two brain hemispheres ssue different wave frequencies, but drumming synchronizes the left nd ight brain hemispheres, bringing one into a healing state that only editation can provide. There is nothing more connecting or healing than oming home to our center and experiencing the nurturing, loving compassion of our Creator through the heartbeat of the drum. The relaxation achieved by drumming helps us to see, feel and know our connection with the Divine, with all of life, and with each other. Because of this, it naturally awakens our creativity and mental capacity, and helps to expand our heart. ~ Cathy Flinn |
| Name: | David Robertson |
| E-mail address: | dmr@bresnan.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://montanarhythm.pbwiki.net |
| Comments: | Hi
Your website's great and thanks for all the info. If you could, update the info. for Missoula, Montana's Full Moon Drum Circle. The contact info should be my e-mail, not the one listed. Also, if you'd care to link to my Montana Rhythm wiki i would appreciate it. I'll list your site on mine. Thanks again, Dave |
| Name: | An email from Eric |
| Comments: | I'm a veteran film doc/TV producer and was honored to be asked to record a private, "VIP" drum session up high on the side of Mt. Shasta, in Northern CA. over a decade ago.
I would like to share an experience with you that very few people will ever talk about. It is an entrusted responsibility, something one of the Pnaci elders who participated in the gathering, explained to us, after we'd experienced this simple but life changing event. Such insights can be counter productive when filtered through the eyes and ears of those who choose to remain in the tangible world and are skeptical due to their own lack of enlightenment. I pray for their awakenings. We don't have to "convince" anyone of anything. The Spirit talks to whomever it selects to communicate with. It's multidimensional, real and we humans must have our antennas extended (developed sensitivities) or we miss so much. I now feel that drumming opens these doors. The idea came from someone at Remo who was thinking in terms of a promotion. Nothing against Remo, but others who heard about it knew it would be hard to draw professional drummers, for commercial interests, and spiritual leaders (those who drum for worship and healing instead of entertainment) together, for that purpose alone, since money isn't an issue for many of them. So it was decided to become an invitational "retreat", the purpose being to share information, styles and for product design research. The event would not be published, advertised nor documented. Any recordings could not be used commercially and audio copies of the event went home with the participants, period. Aside from logistics and an actual date, the response was awesome. Eventually our distinguished group met at the base of Mt. Shasta on a beautiful summer morning. We had to hike all the heavy battery packs and sound gear way up above Panther Meadows which was the furthest we could drive before the back packs and volunteer "Sherpas" were deployed. We had a representative from the Hollow Earth group who knew the area well, along as guide. The area we selected seemed shielded from the most wind, for the sake of my microphones. The view was off the scale. Hawks would glide past, audibly alerting the "neighborhood" that visitors were in the area. A chipmunk climbed a mic boom and decided to take part of a foam wind screen along for his nest. I recorded his chewing noises as he stole his souvenir. We had some form of Blue jay like birds who set up a competing chorus of their own which was beyond amusing. The louder we got, the higher amplitudes they employed, becoming quite competitive. Large red and black ants visited our open cooler of snacks and beverages as we did our best to peacefully integrate with the environment and settle in. It took about two hours to set up the 16 drum mics, a few overhead devices and dial in some processors. Finally, we were led in prayer, left ego, expectation and any form of competition behind and meditated for half an hour or so while the drum skins warmed in the midday sun. Then the wonderful vibration began. Effortless transitions, endless smiles, boundless energy. Wow. After maintaining the groove for nearly an hour, an amazing thing happened and we suddenly went through three distinctly different emotions or "learning states". We'd been rolling tape and into the drum jam for 52 minutes according to my time code window when suddenly, while under headphones, I noticed that I was hearing the faint sound of flutes, voices singing and chanting and other percussive sounds. The air seemed thicker, for lack of a better word. Time stood still. Being the sound recordist I immediately knew something was up. Nobody was playing anything but drums. Nobody was chanting. The volume of this new chorus intensified, and, without any words or looks being exchanged, everyone else suddenly became aware of the added sounds. I wish we'd been videotaping the event. We all found ourselves staring at each other and, sadly, everyone just stopped playing. Silence. We sat there, stunned. I plugged in two more sets of headphones for others to listen to and rolled back tape so we could review what had just occurred. However, all that was on the tape were the sounds generated by the 16 artists who were present. Comments ranged from, "That was freaky!" to statements of disbelief. A Pnaci elder was the first to offer humble thanks and try and explain what had just occurred. After a few tears of joy and amazement, lots of goosebumps and everyone talking at once, we calmed down and discussed the phenomenon at which point two things were agreed upon: First, Spirit was definitely in the house... we had awakened, opened the door to, invited or played host to unseen guests but the microphones didn't capture their celebratous sounds. The other thing we identified was the element of some sort of fear. Fear of the unknown? and why? We discussed flawed human nature. We accepted several theories and couldn't have been a more cohesive, open minded group with good intentions and it was decided to go again. I believe that besides the world's root problem of over-population (too many people, life becomes cheap, terrorism is a job for those who don't have one, issues for those who choose to depress, react, etc.), human nature has become flawed. We live in a toxic, polluted world... toxic for our minds, bodies and environment. A trendy lack of honesty, clear heads for choices, abounding selfishness (no sense of community and vision), self medicating, fear, depression which I believe to be a choice and totally changeable, have all become almost genetic and systemic, especially for the drones in society. Politicians won't identify or help such beings because so many of them obtain power and votes from these non-thinkers. Shame on the un-informed! So, when entities outside our comprehendible realms joined us, the realization of this was so profound, even though "they" were so welcome to be there (we were the guests in this case!), everyone had simply stopped drumming, in amazement. People kept looking around as if some manifestation would be visible. Not the case. So, we all understood just how blessed we were and decided to proceed with the drumming with the steadfast agreement that, should it happen again, we would keep going, enjoy the moment, whether or not we understood what was going on and just see where it went. Even just at that point in the event, it was a life changing experience for all. It was tangible. We hit the mark. They hear us. They're real. The bottom line: We started again. There was a new excitement and level of intensity. In 47 minutes we had our visitors back. No indication of what tribe, spirits, world or origin of any type. And would you believe that the group stopped drumming again. The emotions that followed which included some disappointment, frustration and were very revealing about human nature, became almost fatiguing. Needless to say, given the best intentions and after thorough self critique, we all agreed that some sort of innate fear (awe, hesitation pertaining to that which we didn't understand or maybe being overwhelmed by the energy of the visiting entity) caused everyone to lose self control and stop playing at exactly the same time. Fear is contagious. It's a poison in any form. I wish we could evolve and leave it behind. We processed it and moved on, suddenly realizing that everybody there had a sensation that was separate from the actual experience. We'll never know to what level it could have gone. Our imaginations took over at that point in the discussions that followed. One thing was undeniable and became apparent within about 20 minutes: every single participant felt released, physically. We each carefully, objectively described how we were affected. All of us felt energized, several people realized their pain was gone in various places that chronically hurt, there was a calm... literally... a slower ambient heart rate, a thick feeling of peace, almost sensuous and the view became intoxifying. The air was our lungs were exchanging, as we breathed in & out, had a physical sensation of transferring energy in and out of us. There was a feeling of completeness like humans have after excellent sex, a world class meal, winning an award, the ultimate high. It's hard to put to words how multidimensional and deep these sensations were. Silence just sort of fell on the group while everyone enjoyed the high, Wolfhawk played his flute and we watched the sun leave charge with a gigantic moon. Oh how a campfire would have been perfect but it was fire season and not allowed or we'd probably still be there (!). Getting off the mountain was interesting because we had no flashlights and hadn't planned on being there that long. As much as we wanted it to occur again, it didn't. We felt disappointment in our lack of self control but also blessed for the reality of whatever had just taken place. My testimony is simply that it was real. We've never assembled again but it was perfect. We were allowed to have a peek at something which went on to enhance many lives, teachings, purposes and most certainly became an integral part of the reason we drum. I want something like this to happen on the world's stage. Drumming is healing energy because I now believe it is a medium which opens doors of un-conventional communication. We've all agreed to do it again someday but haven't. The experience is worthy of a book but the duration of the event wouldn't supply enough material. But it's in me and I am thankful for the privilege of having been there. Regardless of what other people are thinking while drumming, my very non professional skill level of drumming, from that day forward, has been an offering of thanks, humbling gratitude for being allowed to know. Aside from the physical (vibrational) and emotional characteristics, when you drum, you honor those entities. By intention, as a group, we opened a door of unseen communication and were rewarded with insight and healing. I'd give anything to have everybody experience this. Eric |
| Name: | Dave and Andrea Taylor |
| E-mail address: | davidsdom226@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | We just experienced our first drum circle at Dunedin Brewery last night. All we can say is.... we will definately be back .... over and over again! What an awesome event where everyone is there for the same reason, and there are no strangers! |
| Name: | Lary Crews |
| E-mail address: | bongo-lary@tampabay.rr.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.larywriter.com |
| Comments: | Hi. Started playing bongos in the Sixties. Played folk guitar for 20 years and bass guitar for 10 years. Came back to bongos fulltime when I lived in Los Angeles. (Venice Beach Drum Circle) I'm a semi-pro bongocero who loves to play for fun, too. Congratulations on your informative website. You're doing a real service.
Now that I'm back in Florida to stay, I'll be up to Clearwater Beach soon. |
| Name: | Heather Shirley |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.pacificark.org |
| Comments: | Great site. Thanks! |
| Name: | Shannon (reply to Rick) |
| Comments: | Hi Rick,
The best way to learn drumming in my opinion is just get a drum and start drumming. If you don't have a hand drum, visit a music store and try a few out. Also try visiting a drum circle nearby where you live and talk to a few drummers. Most musicians you will meet are very supportive and will want to help you along. There is a drum circle locator on the main page. Feel free to email me if you have any other questions okay? May the "UM" in drum be with you. Shannon www.drumcircles.net |
| Name: | Rick |
| E-mail address: | rick@nmex.com |
| Comments: | Wanting to learn.. To Drum.. Rick |
| Name: | Some Good Djembe Technique |
| Comments: |
Fundamentals of Djembe Technique Most djembe sounds are open and unmuffled. For all of the basic sounds, let your hand rebound as soon as it has made its sound. A bass should rebound like it's coming off a trampoline. A tone should jump up like you've just touched a hot stove. A slap should snap back like the end of a cracking bullwhip. Most djembe patterns are played out of "the roll," meaning that if you filled every note in a measure, your hands would alternate left and right. In 4/4 time this means that the downbeat and the "+" beat (if you count 1 e + a 2 e + a etc.) are played with the right hand (if you are right-handed), while the offbeats (the e's and a's) are played with the left hand. (The term "roll" can also refer to double-time notes;) You want all of your basses, tones, and slaps to have the same tone, pitch, nd character each time you play them, so it's very important to practice as mch or more with your non-dominant hand so that every note sounds the same, regardless of which hand you're using. Djembe Bass The bass is the lowest-pitched djembe sound. To make a bass sound on a dembe, drop your hand down in the middle of the drum, with the base of thepalm of the hand just inside the rim of the drum. The thumb is tucked in, parallel (or almost parallel) to the fingers. The four fingers are together. All of the palm, the fingers, and the fingertips hit the drum head at once with a soft yet firm intention. Don't reach all the way to center of the drum to make a bass sound; just get the bottom of the palm of your hand inside the rim of the drum. Keep your hand soft and flat or else you can end up with slapping or other extraneous sounds. As soon as your hand hits the drum head, let it rebound like it's doing a belly flop on a trampoline. The movement to make a bass sound starts at elbow, but the wrist should lift up a bit more than the hand itself; imagine a marionette string attached at the wrist lifting the hand, and then just let it drop straight down on to the drum head. Djembe Tone The tone is the middle djembe sound. Many of my teachers call the tone the natural sound of the drum - the default sound it would like to make. But please note that, as Seattle djembe player Lance Scott points out, "This doesn't mean that making a good tone is any easier than making a good slap. The kind of sound most beginning drummers make when hitting a drum is somewhere between a tone and a slap (usually closer to the tone). To get a good, deep tone without any higher overtones takes a lot of practice." To make a tone sound on a djembe, form a straight line from your elbow to your fingertips and keep your forearm, wrist, hand, fingers, and fingertips gently locked as a single unit. Imagine that your arm is like soft steel and your finger pads and fingertips are a mallet that will firmly strike the drum head. With your thumb perpendicular to your fingers (so that it won't hit the rim of the drum), firmly drop your hand onto the drum head with the pads at the base of your fingers landing just outside of the rim of the drum. Your fingers stay together throughout the motion so that the four of them form a sort of paddle. The angle of force is straight down into and through the head of the drum. As soon as your fingers hit the drum, they should rebound as if you had just touched a hot stove. Djembe Slap The slap is the highest-pitched djembe sound. To make a djembe slap sound, assume the same arm position that you did to make a tone and then relax the wrist and let it drop down so that the palm of the hand is extended back about 10 or 15 degrees. Relax your fingers and let them naturally spread out and curve. With a flicking/whipping motion, drop your hand onto the drum head with the pads at the base of your fingers landing on (or just outside) the rim of the drum. Only your fingertips should hit the drum head (in extreme slow-motion they land in this order: pinky, ring, middle, index finger). As soon as your fingertips hit the drum head they should rebound like the tip of a bullwhip. The direction of force is at a slight angle to the head of the drum (unlike the tone, which goes straight down into the drum). My teachers have differed on exactly where the hand should land to make a slap sound. Some say the pads at the top of the palm/base of the fingers should be in just a bit from where they are to make a tone. Others say they should land in the same place as they do when you make a tone. Experiment with this to find the position that works best for you. Your goal is to end up with a crisp, clear, clacking slap. Muffled Slap To make a muffled slap on a djembe, use the same technique as for a regular slap, but place the other hand on the drum head to muffle the sound. The trick here is to deftly slip the opposite hand onto the drum without making a sound. Use a swooping motion - coming in at a flat angle - to quickly and quietly slip the non-playing hand on to the drum head, and then make your muffled slap. A Comment from a Tam Tam Mandingue Professor When he read this article, Rusty Knorr, who is certified by Mamady Keita <http://www.larryswanson.com/Mamady-Keita.htm> to teach traditional djembe playing, said, "I think it is important to clarify the relation of the palm to the bearing edge in making the tone and slap. In my experience and in learning from my teachers, the crease of the palm over the bearing edge of the drum shell is the reference point for both the tone and slap. The 'knuckles of the palm' should be inside the bearing edge to prevent pain and long term damage to the hand. None of the players I have seen using this reference point have bad hands but some that don't...their hands are like claws! I had tremendous pain in learning to drum until Mamady pointed this out early in my studies with him." Rusty and I are going to connect soon to discuss this further, and I hope to get some photos then to add to this page to illustrate his point. Difference Between Tone and Slap I hope it's clear in my descriptions above how tones and slaps differ, but it's useful to spend some extra time on the differences between tones and slaps. The main differences are in the: * angle of attack: straight down into the drum head for a tone, at a slight oblique angle for a slap * tension in the forearm: strong tension for a tone, relaxed for a slap * curve of the fingers: straight for a tone, curved for a slap * amount of flesh that hits the drum head: all of the fingerpads and fingertips for a tone, just the fingertips for a slap. For Mamady Keita, it's the intention that makes the difference. He holds his hands the exact same way for each sound, but when he thinks tone, he makes a tone; when he thinks slap, he makes a slap. However you get there, the end result should be a thudding melodic tone and crackling crisp slap. Vocalization Many djembe teachers and students find some sort of vocalization helpful. Baba Olatunji used to say, "If you can say it, you can play it," and he developed his Gun/Dun, Pa/Ta, Go/Do system to help students sing rhythms before playing them. Most of the djembe teachers I have had use some sort of vocalization scheme. To keep things simple, I recommend adopting your current teacher's vocalization style, but if you have a lot of teachers, you might also want to develop your own for your ongoing learning. Many experienced djembe players vocalize as they play. When Pepe Danza solos, he's vocalizing non-stop. Ibrahima Camara says, "If I don't talk, I cannot play." So if you see djembe players muttering to themselves as they play, don't question their sanity; just assume that they're working out their phrasing. Find a Good Teacher Neither this article nor any other written or recorded source is a substitute for a good teacher. There are subtleties and refinements to djembe playing that you can develop only under the tutelage of an experienced teacher. If you really want to master the sounds of the djembe, find a good teacher. Practice Like any musical skill, mastering djembe technique requires lots of practice. The more you practice, the better you'll sound. Tyler Richart, one of the most accomplished djembe players in Seattle, still spends an hour a day just working on his basic djembe sounds. When he teaches djembe soloing, Tyler points out that your djembe sounds are your alphabet to make the words that you use to tell your story. If you haven't mastered your djembe technique, your story will sound like you're talking with a mouthful of gravel. |
| Name: | Shamanic Drumming Circles info |
| Comments: | From the news group - I thought this was very interesting indeed. (long)
Shamanic Drumming Circles Copyright © 2002 by Michael Drake Shamanic drumming is a time-honored method of healing and helping others. Shamanic drumming circles provide the opportunity for people of like mind to unite for the attainment of a shared objective. There is power in drumming alone, but that power recombines and multiplies on many simultaneous levels in a group of drummers. The drums draw individual energies together, unifying them into a consolidated force. Synchronized drumming is the most effective, so individuals should alternate the responsibility of setting the tempo and leading the group. The basic steps that I find most effective are as follows: 1. Simply join together, forming a circle. By creating a circle, you are structuring an energy pattern that will contain, focus, and amplify the power generated by drumming. 2. Next, you should smudge the space and all participants. This can easily be accomplished by passing a smudge bowl clockwise around the circle. The drummers can then smudge themselves and their drums. Smudging cleanses the mind and environment in preparation for spiritual or inner work. The sacred smoke dispels any stagnant or unwanted energy, opens the energy channels of your body, and raises your personal power or windhorse. According to Mongolian shamanism, windhorse can be increased through smudging, drumming, and other forms of shamanic practice in order to accomplish significant aims. Sage, cedar, thyme, and sweetgrass are traditionally used for smudging, but any dried herb is acceptable. Light the herbs in a fire-resistant receptacle and then blow out the flames. Then use a feather or your hands to draw the smoke over your heart, throat, and face to purify the body, mind, and spirit. Next, smudge your drum by passing it through the smoke. Conclude the smudging by thanking the plant whose body made the cleansing possible. 3. At this point, you may wish to invoke the powers of the four directions. Invoking the four directions or elements is an ancient shamanic rite practiced cross-culturally to access and honor the powers of creation. The facilitator can lead the group in this process. I like to have the participants stand and face each direction in unison. Rotate clockwise, facing first the East, then South, then West, then North, inviting each direction to participate and assist in the ceremony. If you wish, you can include Father Sky above and Mother Earth below as the fifth and sixth directions. 4. Having invoked the four directions, it is important to form the group's collective intention or goal-what you desire or expect to accomplish. Intent is a kind of decision making that directs the focus of our attention. It is through our attention that we influence and direct the aspects of our experience and the world around us. 5. The next step is to commence the first or "prayer" round of drumming. All participants should focus their attention on the group intention or goal during this round of drumming. It is the responsibility of the facilitator to set the tempo. A steady, metronome-like pattern with precisely regular intervals, at around 180 beats per minute (or three beats per second), is the most effective. This rapid "eagle-beat" creates the sensation of inner movement, which, if you allow it, will carry you along. It is projective in nature and carries your intention, prayers, and awareness into the spirit world that underlies and sustains our physical reality. All forms and events in the material world have their source in the spirit world. 6. The timeframe, however, varies from ceremony to ceremony. It is best to trust your intuition in this process. When leading a group, I move the beater around the drumhead until I find the sweet spot and my drum begins to sing and hum. Eventually, I can hear the sound of my drum moving around the circle, resonating through each person's drum. The drums begin to sing in unison and the experience is indescribable. I sense that each person is connected to the spirit world. I try to hold this energy dynamic for as long as possible. This climactic phase eventually wanes, and the drums start doing their own thing again. This is usually the point where I signal the end of the first round of drumming with four thundering beats of the drum. 7. Once the group intention has been introduced, commence the second or "healing" round by drumming the pulsating lub-dub, lub-dub of a heartbeat rhythm. Stroke a steady heartbeat rhythm at around 180 beats per minute (or 90 heartbeats per minute since one-heartbeat equals two beats). This magnetic pulse draws power from the spirit world into the drum circle. Each participant should clear his or her mind of everything. You must surrender all attachment to the desired outcome to achieve success. It is best to close your eyes and focus on the sound of the drums. Let the drums do the healing. The drums will shape available energy into a powerful vortex that will spiral out into the fibers of Mother Earth's web. 8. When you feel the power ebbing, signal the end of the second round of drumming with four booming beats. 9. Commence the final or "thank you" round of drumming with the even cadence of the eagle-beat. Sustain a tempo of 180 beats per minute for one to five minutes. Participants should give thanks for the needs met and the needs they are asking to be met. 10. Finally, signal the end of the drumming with four resounding beats. It is important to conclude the drumming circle by rotating counterclockwise, thanking each of the directions for their participation and assistance. This counterclockwise movement will close the energy vortex and signal that the sacred time of focus is ended. Exercise Summary The basic steps in the preceding exercise are: 1. Join together, forming a circle. 2. Create sacred space by smudging. 3. Invoke the four directions. 4. Formulate the group intention. 5. Drum the eagle-beat and focus on the group intention. 6. End the prayer round with four thundering beats. 7. Drum the heartbeat and focus on the sound of the drums. 8. When the power ebbs, signal end of healing round with four booming beats. 9. Drum the eagle-beat, offering thanks. 10. End the drumming with four resounding beats. I have found these basic steps be very effective in a myriad of situations. Feel free, however, to adapt them to serve your own needs. Rhythm is a very personal thing. Experiment with different tempos and rhythms. My intention is to provide a foundation upon which the reader can then build. Drumming circles open portals to alternate realities. They facilitate a merging of the physical and spiritual realms. They expedite communication with helping spirits and draw them in. The drumming circle also links the consciousness of each participant to the entire web of life. It develops a continuous, shared consciousness with all our relations. Even small groups of people of one mind, one purpose, and fully attuned through the drums can transform the world and manifest what is needed to benefit all beings. |
| Name: | Bob |
| E-mail address: | helibob22@aol.com |
| Comments: | I've been drumming all my life (40+ yrs). I just got into hand drumming in the last 5 years or so. Playing by feel like I do, hand drumming really allows me to live the music.
I just ordered your Drum circles DVD and am looking forward to expanding my rhythmic base. Anyone in the St. Louis, MO area wanting to get together and drum, send me some email. |
| Name: | Drumming Videos |
| Comments: | Here is a number of pretty doggone cool
drumming videos from around the world; The links are below: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=3536877228057345033 USA - Drumming on buckets outside of the Art Institute of Chicago http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=4105297736718653958 Korean farmers drumming at the Hong Kong World Trade Organisation conference. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=967800396358951702 Indian tabla and dancing at a house party http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-4276276069583964502 capoeira circle http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-7092264578024927665 A sampler of the performances by Bantus Capoeira Germany in the 2005 Afrika Karibik Festival. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=1485272562948455957 french djembe kids - now for somewthing completely different :-) http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-7819181850873791529 massive nagara drums of India..feel the low end..in New Delhi http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-414136403288321071 Drum music on the streets of Pelorinho [northern Brazil] http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5807430057268104384 The "dhak" (a traditional drum in Bengal) is an integral part of the festivities during Durga Puja. In this video, the ... all » "dhakis" (artists who play the dhak) are giving a rather showy demonstration of their skills. Taken on Maha Ashtami evening at Dakshinee Durga Puja in South Calcutta. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-7326313922453757970 nojeem's talking drum solo. Portland Oregon. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=1581867722104021421 tony royster - lest anyone start thinking they are important just because the have been playing a long time, watch young Tony Royster play at age 12. oh my God.. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-897210134484091635 Assaf Seewi - Live Conga Drumming - this fellow, the juggling drummer, is based in UK and has some very unique skills. not quite like any other player i have seen.. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8153141116337223684 community drumming at hippie hill, golden gate park. California drum circle.. http://www.earthcds.com/sounds/kabiosile/changos.earthcds.com.wmv found this one on yahoo: an afro-cuban gathering, or is it nigerian? i recognize the bata, but not sure of the country. |
| Name: | Why I do this |
| Comments: | I am interested in
helping people find their own rhythm and encouraging them to express it. A complete beginner can find out that they have a sense of rhythm by having a go at a non-threatening drum circle where the emphasis is on fun. |
| Name: | Drumming Article - Daytona News |
| Comments: | March 29, 2006
Drumming encourages harmony By KIMBERLEY JACE Are you yawning over yoga, but looking for a way to exercise your body and your soul at the same time? Perhaps you march to the beat of a different drummer. Drum circles are becoming a popular way to commune with other musicians and achieve a relaxed state -- and possibly encourage a little harmony in the world. "A drum circle will create a vortex of energy," said Tai Chi instructor Rhonda Donahoo, one of the founders of Drumming for Peace, which meets monthly at the Edgewater Public Library. "We're trying to create an energy field that adds peace that will spread to the community." Drumming for Peace began after the 2001 terrorist attacks, she said. "Everybody was reacting in a violent way. We wanted to react in a more peaceful way because we believe what you give out, you get back." Donahoo said as many as 40 people attended the sessions on the beach in New Smyrna before the hurricanes damaged that beach. Now an average of 15 people come to the Edgewater Library sessions. Some bring their own instruments, and some come to dance. The group tries to accommodate everyone who attends. The benefits are more than psychological, according to Healthy Rhythms, a division of drum manufacturer Remo, Inc. Neurologist Barry Bittman, who undertook a study funded by Remo in 2001, determined that drumming reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which strengthens the immune system. In a separate study, also led by Bittman, 46 percent of long-term care workers reported improved moods after group drumming. Some corporations use group drumming as a "team building" exercise, to generate a spirit of unity among employees. Sid Hill, drummer for the Psycho Magnets, a local band, said he has never participated in a drum circle -- but he occasionally sells djembe drums at his new store, Monster Music in Edgewater. "People like playing them on the beach," Hill said. Rev. Dawn Casseday, a Native American certified healer who operates the Universal Center in Cassadaga, said drumming is a very personal experience. "People are looking for their spiritual path," Casseday said. "They're also realizing that the earth needs a lot of healing." Drum circles at the Universal Center, held on the night of the full moon every month except during the heat of summer, draw about 30-35 people. Drumming, she said, "is a way to put that healing vibration into the earth, and into their own lives." "Some people's lives are very, very busy," she said. "It's just a peaceful feeling." Did You Know? The djembe (pronounced "JEM-bay" and sometimes spelled "jembe") is a goblet-shaped drum. · It originated in West Africa and is usually covered with an animal skin. · It is meant to be played with bare hands. · In the language of the Maninka people, "jem" refers to the tree used to make the drum, while "be" refers to goat, the hides of which were used for the drum head. -- Kimberley Jace |
| Name: | Djembe on a Jet |
| Comments: | Have drum will travel.
If you ever end up having to fly with your djembe. (there could be a good joke inserted here) Some good tips are below. Whenever I travel I like to bring a drum, like a doumbek or something smaller that fits in a gym bag. Especially when I visit other countries. Customs always looks at it very strangly. Iv'e had many wonderful experiences drumming with people that don't even speak english. I just gesture and smile a lot. The drumming gives us a common bond, and I get welcomed into their culture like no other tourist could ever imagine. On our last vacation we took a 1 week cruise. Not only did the ships bands welcome me to sit in whenever I felt like it, but 2 out of the 4 ports (Trinidad and Belize) we visited had drum circles going when we disembarked. I had a ball, and they were thrilled as well. Many marveled at the drum made of metal. ---------------------------------------------------- Advice on drums and flights I've never been able to fit a djembe into an overhead or under the seat, and the drums i was traveling with weren't as wide as yours. you'll probably have to check it, but check it at the gate, not at the counter. that way it ends up on top of the stuff in the plane's hold, not at the bottom, which is where it's most likely to take damage. the head is the most fragile part, obviously. if you can, cut a piece of plywood to the shape of the head and put it on top before you close things up. if not, a few layers of cardboard are good. if the bag is loose, you can wrap a couple old towels around the bowl of the drum and tape them in place for extra protection. also, if your drum is tuned high, take out most of the diamonds (tuning knots). natural hide heads tend to tighten up in the dry air of a jet, and could break if tight. a loose head also better resists accidental puncturing. |
| Name: | manny lopez |
| E-mail address: | lopmanu3@aol.com |
| Comments: | great page you have lot of info.and realy good stuff for all kind of drummers.been a drummer myself thanks for such a great website.manny lopez,iya bakoso latin ens. |
| Name: | greg |
| E-mail address: | mrgkcoates@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I am starting to "get it"!!!! Thanks |
| Name: | Ron Evans |
| E-mail address: | rj_evans@hotmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://profile.myspace.com/deptotpr |
| Comments: | Hi, just browsing through..... |
| Name: | Shannon |
| E-mail address: | drums@drumcircles.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://drumcircles.net |
| Comments: | Hey Ricardo, Please beam me over there will you?
That description of that drum circle sounds might appealing. And thanks for the kind words Ben, I will get that circle listed in the next update. |
| Name: | ricardo |
| E-mail address: | lifesabeachhi@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | fun on the beach in beautiful hawaii,every sunday@noon till dusk... drumcircle under the coconut trees on a black sand beach ,there are no facilities on this remote drumcircle location ... so a little planning is necessary bring your percussion instruments and your aloha(good spirit) to the big island of hawaii ,puna district,kehena beach.........diretions .....folow the signs to kalapana,when you get to the end of the road,go left apprx 5 miles you will see a scenic overlook, park here,follow the trail down to the beach..see you there...aloha kakou |
| Name: | Ben |
| E-mail address: | Ben_the_bear@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Love the 101 rhythms cd's. A little fast for a beginning djembe player, like myself, but, still love 'em.
Another drum circle to add to your Jersey list. Drum Circle Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00(ish) pm This event repeats on the third Friday of every month. Location: Gaia's Gate New Age Spiritual Center Address: 33 North River St. Millstone, NJ 08844 Phone: 908-281-9222 Move to the beating of the sacred drum. Drum, dance & sing! Drumming is a great way to relieve tension & stress to raise energy and create a great feeling of community. Beginners and Advanced drummers are welcome. If you have no drum, you are welcome too. Come & clap or dance, some equipment is available for loan. |
| Name: | Shannon |
| E-mail address: | drums@drumcircles.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://drumcircles.net |
| Comments: | Hello - For some strange reason some computers won't play them in their browser. If anyone has trouble hearing them please let me know, and I will email them to you.
Thanks, Shannon |
| Name: | Jillian |
| E-mail address: | jillybeaner22@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Hello! I just wanted to let you know your audio clips are not working.
Thanks |
| Name: | Beverly Nadelman |
| E-mail address: | PrismConcept@yahoo.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://360.yahoo.com/blog/PrismConcept |
| Comments: | Thanks for providing this service to the drumming community. As an Arthur Hull trained Drum Circle facilitator who has evolved to her own style, I am glad to see the many styles of drumming that serve the community.
Baba Olatunji said that when there is a drum in every home there will be peace. You are among those stimulating that vision to fruition. Beverly |
| Name: | Barry Pyne |
| E-mail address: | drumstands@sbcglobal.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://barrypyne.googlepages.com/home |
| Comments: | Greetings to you from the West coast of California, Venice Beach and Griffith Park drum circles, where I have been playing for over 50 years now.
If you happen to get a chance, check out the stands I make for conga, djembe, doumbek, cajon, bongo, ashiko, and other instruments shaped like barrels, cones, and goblets. I enjoy your website very much, and hope to play with you some day soon. |
| Name: | Mike Bomber |
| E-mail address: | bomber_62559@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | Tks for the site .... Now I have something to pass onto my classes and circles ... |
| Name: | Valerie |
| E-mail address: | Champion1again@aol.com |
| Comments: | Hi cool drummer,
I just want to say Thank you for your really awesome website. It is very well done and very informative in many ways. Yes, I want the CD's you are selling and I will get hold of you about that. BUT,, thank you for all your awesome work on this website. I think you will have people from all over get more in touch with each other because of your great work. Thanks again, Valerie |