WHAT IS A DRUM CIRCLE?

A Drum Circle is an event. It is a meeting place, a gathering of people from all walks of life, from all cultures, age and gender. A Drum Circle is where people come together to express themselves, to share their story, to look deep within and find their own unique life rhythm. This is done through an activity that not only creates a sense of fun and spontaneity but also one that fosters friendship, facilitates communication, draws inspiration and most importantly, one that builds community - whether it be a community of high school students, corporate executives or general members of the community in which we live.

Drum Circles bring people together. Drum Circles are a phenomenon that is capturing the hearts of many people all around the world. Gatherings from 3 people to 2,000 people are held on a regular basis in the Americas, Asia, Europe and here in Australia.

In Townsville, Alex Salvador of The Rhythm Connection has been facilitating the Townsville City Council sponsored Full Moon Drum Circle on the night of each Full Moon at the Strand Amphitheatre. The Full Moon Drum Circle has been held at the Strand Amphitheatre, Townsville since 2001 and regularly attracts over 300 people per month.

It's Alive!

A Drum Circle is a living entity. In full swing, it seems to have a life of its own - galloping, breathing, swaying and taking away all of its participants on a magical journey. Some compare a drum circle in motion to a speeding train which no one can stop and in which everyone enjoys the ride.

Types of Drum Circles

In his book “Drum Circle Spirit”, internationally renowned US based Drum Circle Facilitator, Arthur Hull describes three main types of Drum Circles: Anarchist (or Thunder) Drum Circles - where no facilitator is present and usually do not have any particular direction; Cultural-Specific Drum Circles where only particular drums, techniques and rhythms are played; and the Community Drum Circle which is a facilitated event and one that sits between the two other types of drum circles. Here the participants are encouraged to harness the potential of the group through active listening and following some orchestration by the Drum Circle Facilitator. The Rhythm Connection Drum Circles follow the Community Drum Circle approach where there are distinct start, middle and end to each particular rhythmic piece. Alex Salvador facilitates each drum circle and ensures that each participant, regardless of their age, cultural or musical background, receives a full experience from the event.