One of the most ancient forms
of
communication and community building known to man can be found in the form
of a drum circle. Anyone at any age or level of ability is able to
participate in the creative-fun musical recreation activity. Utilizing
ancient drums such as the tubano, which is a Latin drum, and the djembe,
which is a West African drum to name a few, people learn to communicate and
build camaraderie. In the words of Christine Stevens, MSW, MT-BC, MA, “The
accessibility of group drumming is key. Rhythm is inside everyone. Group
drumming is
an ancient healing practice that has stood the
test of time. Within the context of recreational music making, a new
approach has paved the path of applying music making to stress-reduction,
self-expression and community building. Group drumming is not about
performance, technique or showing off. In fact, it is not really about
drumming. This musical experience is utilized to produce non-musical
outcomes. Ultimately, through the metaphor and the actual hands-on practice
of group drumming, there is a transfer of the skills from the drum circle to
life....”
COMMUNITY CENTER,
BOGOTA, NEW JERSEY
DJEMBE
TUBANO