What is a drum circle? Let’s take a look at the Wikipedia
definition and find out (we know you can’t completely trust Wikipedia):
“A drum circle
is any group of people playing (usually) hand-drums and percussion in a circle. They are
distinct from a drumming group or troupe in that the drum circle is an end in
itself rather than preparation for a performance. They can range in size from a
handful of players to circles with thousands of participants.”- (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drum_circle)
The drum circle brings individuals together as a community,
creating a new sound and rhythm. Much of the time, there are no leaders or
followers at a drum circle. Someone can start the beat, but another can change
it. You can follow along if you want, or do your own thing. In the end,
everyone plays as one. And it is just plain fun to do.
So, you may be wondering why we are talking about drum circles.
That is simple. MOM has restarted the drum circles at Woodstock Trading
Company. Last Friday, January 17th, MOM had the first drum circle in
what seems like forever. Everyone had a great time. This first gathering was
small, about 12 people, but it was loud. We had all different people of ages
and background gather into the store. Many assume that hippies at festivals
only do drum circles. Not true at all. You can be a banker, a truck driver, a waiter,
a grandmother, or a kid. It doesn’t matter who you are or what you do. Some
join into a drum circle for spiritual and/or metaphysical reasons. Some come
because it is a great way to meet and interact with people. Don’t be afraid to
come if you don’t have a drum. Not all drum circles include drums alone.
Most drum circles us some form of percussive instrument. It
wouldn’t be a drum circle if you didn’t. However, it also depends on what your
definition of percussion instrument is. We have had people come out with pots
and pans. People have banged two sticks together. They have even played the
beat of themselves or the floor. This past circle, someone used a water jug.
You can really make a drum out of anything, with a few exceptions. We have also
had people come with guitars, harps, and keyboards. These circles turn into big
jam sessions. We have had dancers come out. Native American tribes have joined our circles. We have even had demonstrations on how to play certain types of drums.
MOM is having another drum circle on Friday, February 14th,
Valentine’s Day. She keeps saying the nothing is more romantic than beating on
a drum under the Woodstock “candlelight”. If you are interested, please come
out and join us. It is ok if you don’t have a drum or instrument. You can just
hang out with us. All Woodstock events are family friendly, so you don’t have
to worry about anything. We hope to see you all at the next drum circle.
Fondly,
Jim of the Woodstock Gang
