Running a Drum Workshop

There’s something wonderfully primal about a group of people playing hand drums together. Skin on drum head, mind in rhythm, it speaks to an ancestral part of us. Like we almost remember the feeling of it. From another life. I think a lot of people would agree with me. This sensation and inclination is a big part of why I run Drum Workshops

Recently at the request of a friend I used my mobile to call up a woman called Lydia who assured me I would be most welcome to travel down to Devon and be paid to run a series of interactive drum workshops for anyone keen. New or experienced, all would be welcome to join me in using a fantastic circus tent to play the drums in.

Percussion workshops are a lot of fun, you never know what people wilI be like or how they’ll pick up what you ask them to do. I haven’t run one for over a year, so I jumped at the chance. I packed some congas, djembes, bongos, and a cajon and headed south with my gas stove, some vegetables, wholemeal bread I’d made the day before and some decent coffee.

It was a fantastic weekend ; Fantastic food, wonderful views and most importantly , a real keen attitude from girls boys men and women to try their hand at learning hand percussion techniques . People signed up to the workshops throughout the two days. Group work is a lot of fun when people go for it, and I love the surprise when people realise they have a knack for a new skill like drumming. A Drum Workshop is an awesome way to try your hand at it and if it’s led right, you’ll feel excited ( though maybe nervous?! )  and supported by your group.

We played individually, and as a group, in an inclusive manner which totally and deliberately excluded competitive nature and encouraged a patient and fun approach to what we were doing. I had a really great time meeting other traders, and the farm is beautiful!

This was a fantastic opportunity to develop my workshop leading skills and I’m glad I did it. Sometimes when you get a call, you’ve got to just go for it.

One couple I met breed goats for meat,  and are sending me a goad skin to rehear a Djembe with as I have done before. I will put a post up about that in next weeks blog.

I recommend if you get a chance you check out River Cottage in Axminster, and if you would like to be involved in such a workshop, get in touch with me at lessons@positivedrumtuition.com and I will tell you when the next one is running! They will be happening in Bristol throughout Autumn and winter time.

I also recommend you get involved with Trinity Centre in Bristol who are a marvellous community asset and music venue. They are fundraising now for vital repair work to the roof of the building. There is more about the #notesfornotes campaign on this page of the Trinity website- click here to learn more.

You can also Like my Facebook page HERE!

I also have a page on this website about getting me to come and do a workshop for up to 10 people Here!

Thanks for your time, check out the older blogs if you liked this one!