ring of rhythm

Throughout the ages, indigenous cultures from all corners of the world have embraced the throbbing, heartbeat call of drums. From Polynesia and the African continent to the native peoples of North and South America, the pulsing music of rhythmic drumming has brought people together, helped unify inhabitants into cohesive populations, and defined the borders of communities.

In Hawaii, native elders still refer to their traditional drums as the "heartbeat of the land." During feudal times in rural Japan, a village's boundaries were sometimes determined by how far the sound of a drumbeat carried. Traditions of distinctive rhythms have been passed down through generations, just as others have been protected and taught in Brazil, Africa, Australia and the Southwest. Groups of drummers, sometimes accompanied by dancers and singers, have celebrated births and unions, heralded harvests, warned of invasions and announced battles, and given a powerful, throbbing voice to deep sorrows and great joys.

Loosely defined, a drum circle consists of a gathering of people who have come together with a shared intention, facilitated through the use of percussive instruments. The number of participants - as well as the details of style, leadership and duration of play - vary from gathering to gathering. The thread that connects these circles is the existence of a common goal, such as beating out a prayer for world harmony and healing, or a simple communication of joy.

Today, organized drum circles are growing in popularity. Most are led by a single drummer who sits in the center of the circle and establishes a specific rhythm. Surrounding drummers join in and support the base rhythm, creating a natural synergy. By working together in unity, a strong sense of camaraderie and community naturally develops, embracing both participants and listeners.

If you're ready to explore your own rhythmic desires, but concerned about your capacity for rhythm, remember this: Neither formal percussion training or specific musical talent are required. To find an organized circle near you, check community center listings, area bulletin boards, and call local music teachers. If your town or city has an official community website, you might find information there. To further assist you in beginning your own drumming journey, check out these experts, who lead drum circles and rhythm workshops around the world:

Christine Stevens (www.ubdrumcircles.com) is the leader of UpBeat Drum Circles, and holds degrees in both music therapy and social work. She conducts workshops for varied groups including wellness seminars, youth groups, and corporate team building.

Musician and multi-percussionist Paolo Mattioli (www.rhythmjourney.com) records, performs internationally, and tours regularly to lead drum circles in corporate, educational, and community settings.

Whether you choose to join an established circle or begin one of your own, you'll likely find that most beats are easy to follow, and that the music will rise up spontaneously from a place that resides deep inside all of us, a metronomic pulse as steady and natural as the beating of the human heart.