Drum Circle Points

DRUM CIRCLE POINTS

"A drum circle can be a very powerful, yet intimate experience for everybody.... Your drumming skill level is less important than how much of yourself you contribute to the experience. If every player is there to share their spirit and have fun, the musical part of any drum circle will take care of itself." - Arthur Hull

1. RESPECT: Treat drums with respect. They can access tremendous energy.
   
   
2. INSTRUMENT: Drums are musical instruments. Do not use them as tables or stools. Place nothing on the head except a protective cover. Rubbing the drum head in circles gently with your palm generates friction that warms the skin for playing and establishes a bond with the drum.
   
   
3. PERMISSION: Ask permission before you play ANY drum or instrument that is not yours. NEVER play without permission.
   
   
4. PROTECTION: Never play a hand drum while wearing rings, watches, bracelets, or other hand or wrist jewelry. These can cut through a skin with one stroke.
   
   
5. SENSITIVITY: Treat other drummers with respect. Drumming is a communal activity. Sensitivity to others in the group is essential to create beneficial vibrations and unified sound.
   
   
6. LISTEN: Listen as much as you play. By listening, you can gain a better sense of how to fit into the groove.
   
   
7. WATCH: In most drum circles there are many levels of skill and experience. If new, try to key your strokes to others. Watch their hands.
   
   
8. LAYERS: The group needs a basic groove, usually requiring several drummers to hold it. Usually one person at a time solos. Occasionally soloists will "converse" with one another. Or they will solo for dancers. There is plenty of freedom within the basic groove to experiment with while expressing your rhythmical spirit.
   
   
9. SPACE: Space is important. Don't fill it all up. Leave creative space for other players. Less is more.
   
   
10. CLARITY: It is more important to play fewer strokes CLEARLY than to play fast.
    
    
11. "KEEP IT SIMPLE." Simplicity often appeals more than complexity. Keep the pulse in sight. The goal is music, not noise.
    
    
12. VOLUME: Play at the volume of the group. If you can only hear yourself, you are probably not having a constructive musical relationship with the circle. Play softly enough to hear everyone around you. Follow and support dynamic changes in volume and tempo.
    
    
13. SHARING: Bring ALL drum volume down when quieter instruments (guitars, flutes, etc.) play.
    
    
14. ASK: Every drum circle is different. If you’re not sure what’s appropriate, just ask somebody.
    
    
15. DANCE: Dancing creates an energy loop with the drums and builds the energy! Let the spirit move you!
    
    
16. PARTICIPATE: Drum, dance, play a bell or shaker, or simply be present in all your shining glory! 

Portions ©Arthur Hull and ©Motherbeat News.