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I’ve written several articles about African drumming and still think there are people out there who might have misconceptions about djembe drummers and drumming in general and would really benefit from the experience if they’d just give it a chance. If you are curious, drawn to the drum, would really like to try drumming, but are afraid or don’t know what to expect, I’d like to give you some new information in a different format. This may help you better understand what African drumming is about, that it truly IS for everyone!
The drum has changed my life drastically; it has given me meaning, purpose, and has improved my health in countless ways. I was severely depressed, unable to work, and had to leave graduate school. I bought a small African drum having no clue why I was so obsessed with it, went to a local drum circle not knowing anything at all and got hooked. I took lessons, attended workshops, practiced constantly and here is it eleven years and about fourteen drums later, I am teaching African drum! I never would’ve guessed my life would take such an odd turn, that I’d be playing drums with such a wonderful, interesting, diverse group of people or that I would be performing in Alode’, a women’s drum group! Unbelievable. It has been an incredible, rewarding journey for me. I’m the teacher though, the drum has a profound place in my life and I’m just one voice on the subject....
Every person I’ve had the pleasure of teaching djembe to, has a story, a different reason for coming to the drum, a different learning experience, different reactions, every journey is unique. These are people of many different spiritual and religious backgrounds from many Christian religions, Buddhists, Atheists to Earth based, just to name a few. They range in age from 20 something to a 97 year old woman in one of my senior circles. As far as professions, they’re from all walks of life, nurses, social workers, physicians, business men and women, musicians, clergy, housewives, retirees, even a farmer. So, as you can see drumming is for everyone! I’d like to share some stories from a few of my students so you can hear other voices. I asked them a few questions: What would you really like to share about your drum experience, your drum journey? How has the drum helped you, changed, or improved your life? Any unexpected surprises?
Here are just a few of the many responses I received:
“Discovering drumming as I approach my 50th year has been a wonderful event in my life. At a time when my sons are off to college, my relationship with them is changing, my relationship with my husband is changing, and I find my relationship with myself is changing. I want to take care of myself as I would a good friend, instead of my needs always being last on my list. For me, the quickest, most pleasant and most surprising way back to myself has been through drumming. Alone or with a group, it has been fulfilling, exciting, centering and just plain fun.” Judy - storyteller
“I was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent surgery and radiation. Having cancer was a wake-up call to make changes in my life. My goal was to starve the cancer and feed my spirit. I embarked on a journey of soul nourishing activities. I decided to take a class in African drumming for women. Although the class proved to be challenging and difficult, I found I was able to work through my fears, much like facing my fear of cancer. Research has shown that drumming can help people who have cancer by increasing their T-cell count, boosting the immune system, and assisting in the healing process. Ironically, the drum that I feel most connected with has a beautiful butterfly carving on its base. The butterfly symbolizes transformation and change. As I move forward toward health, drumming is now part of my path, my journey, my new life.” Lorraine - social worker
“I got into African drumming after reading an article by Elizabeth. It was about drumming as an aid or path to meditation and that appealed to me. It took me six months to get up the courage to call for a lesson. I am a woman over fifty; I did not see myself as someone who would fit into the drumming 'scene'. I have found Elizabeth to be incredibly supportive as a teacher and mentor, and I have found that drumming is FUN! After a few lessons I attended the drum circle at Night Eagle and the experience was so energizing. Now I belong to a women’s performance drum group, and it’s a very different experience, cooperative and supportive. My drumming experience has taken turns I could not have foreseen. I will someday turn to drumming for meditation. Right now, I‘m just having lots of fun.” Carol - McRey Farms
“I began drumming a few years ago as an avenue to healing. I am very holistic minded and sound healing interested me long before I found the drum. It has been a powerful way for me to create or absorb positive energy and release negative energy. It’s an excellent creative outlet and I become immersed in the sound of my drum. I have met many interesting people on my drum journey and have found that those who really discover and embrace drumming are enchanted by the world of drum. There are a few experiences in life that can’t be explained or described in a manner someone else would understand. Drumming is one of them.” Bryan - RN
“The drum, for me, is all about connection. The drum helps me to touch a time and place where people were more connected to each other in community, and more a part of the natural world around them. The drum helps me to open to my essential self, Spirit, my soul, the Source, God, whatever you prefer to call it, much like practicing yoga. I attended a spiritual retreat with author/teacher Sobonfu Somé, one of the foremost voices in African spirituality to come to the west. It was a deep and life-changing experience, and playing my drum helps me stay connected to her teachings. I really enjoy playing with and for others, as it allows everyone to be in the present moment and smile. ” Patty - computer programmer
“I bought my Djembe about 13 years ago, took it all over the country. Looked at it occasionally, played it even less. I really didn’t understand it. That changed last year when I took a group class. I finished the four scheduled lessons and realized I wanted more, needed more. The drum was filling a void in my life that I wasn’t aware existed. I started taking private lessons, went to a drum circle, attended workshops and became involved in an advanced class all of which have been fulfilling. I feel better physically, it has helped ease the arthritis pain in my hands, and mentally it feels as if someone has turned a light on. I actually left the house over the winter without griping about it. I even started a business. I can’t fathom an explanation as to why drumming has had such a profound impact on me. All I know is that whatever magic playing the drum has, it is changing the core of who I am and I like it!” KD - business owner
There are many paths available as far as drumming is concerned. It can be used as a tool for meditation and healing, a way to relieve stress, a way to feel a deeper connection with self and others, a spiritual journey or a new way to meet people and have some fun. If you are drawn to the drum or just want to get out of the house, out of the box and try something new... why not try drumming. It may not be the thing for you at all, BUT if it is, how will you know unless you give it a shot?
There are many options for you to begin. You can attend a few different drum circles in your area, just remember not to judge by only one visit and understand that each drum circle will have a different purpose, a different energy. If you feel uncomfortable in one circle, keep an open mind and try another. You can sign up for a djembe workshop or take a couple of individual lessons to learn the basics/technique. Every teacher has a different teaching style, find the one that is a good fit for you. The great thing about drumming is that it is really becoming popular, as circles, events, and workshops are popping up everywhere. There are so many possibilities! Come join the fun!!
Elizabeth Orleski has been playing djembe for eleven years, teaching about five. She facilitates several drum circles in and around Binghamton and travels out of state to conduct work workshops as well. She has a performance group called Alode’ (ah-low-day), is a djembe instructor through BCC Continuing Ed. and teaches at her new business The DRUMZZONE, 25 Hayes Ave, Endicott NY. For more info. about Elizabeth, check out her website www.drumzzone.com, or e-mail eo.drumzz@verizon.net She hopes to be drumming with you soon! |
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