Groovy Cat Garage: Discussion with percussion

Rhythm, one of the things that connects us all

Back in 2018, I was given the opportunity to participate in a "Rhythm 2 Recovery" course by the incredible Simon Faulkner. Unfortunately I wasn't very good and I did not have a lot of opportunity to practice in a clinical setting, so I repeated the course in 2022. During this time, I have had a lot ,more practice and also learnt a lot about the types of drums, building them, repairing them and matching drums to people. It's been quite a journey and one that I feel is worth sharing with others

Why group drumming?

Group drumming using djembes is an awesome way to connect with others, and learn along the way. We play a number of drumming games which are all designed to build pro-social skills such as listening with intention, working collaboratively and co-operatively, and acceptance. Indeed, acceptance is a foundation of all group drumming.

What can you expect?

Each session goes for 45 to 50 minutes. I bring them drums - I have a collection of 25 djembe drums and I bring some other percussion instruments as well, so we cater for a maximum of 30 people. I'm not a good drummer - its not about learning to become musicians. I am good at bringing people together and that is what I hope you can expect. Laughs, connection, acceptance; that is what I hope you can expect.

What does it cost?

If your team is located in south-east Queensland. Say from Redcliffe to Springwood, and then out to Toowoomba, a one hour session is $350.00 + $35.00 GST = $385.00 inc GST. That may seem a lot, but it takes a few dollars to purchase, build and maintain the drums. Re-skinning a single drum can take about four hours.

If you can not afford this, that's OK. Email me anyhow and let's talk.

If your team is outside that area, we do need to talk about travel expenses, but these will be kept to a minimum. I'm open to ideas.

Is it worth it? In my experience, drumming in an awesome tool for healing, connection, growth. The science, particularly neuro-science such as polyvagal theory is sound, effective and meaningful. Regardless of who you book to do your drumming session or sessions, I can not speak highly enough of the power of group drumming.