Welcome to One World Rhythm. My name is Pete Ellison and in this article I will address topics pertaining to rhythm-based event planning and participation. Whether you’re an event planner, guest, or fan of drum circles in general, I hope you’ll find this article to be both useful as well as informative.
In this issue we’re going to discuss planning a rhythm-based event that will include event timelines, typical costs, and space requirements. I’ll also be discussing what to expect as a spectator or participant of a rhythm-based event. But first, for those of you reading the term “rhythm-based event” for the first time and are scratching your head wondering, “What the heck is this all about?” I’ll get into some of the basic concepts of today’s rhythm-based events.
Rhythm-based events fall under the family umbrella of what are called drum circles. There are many types of drum circles conducted throughout the United States and abroad. There are both facilitated or community drum circles, as well as unfacilitated or free form jam sessions, sometimes referred to as thunder drummers.
Drum circles have found their way into programs for at-risk kids, schools, libraries, adult daycare centers, well-elderly care, special need populations, private parties, and conventions. Even large corporations have seen the benefits of drum circles, and some have added them to their team building, retreat and conference programming. As the name implies, a drum circle is typically conducted in a circular-style seating arrangement so that participants can better see and hear each other.
For facilitated circles an individual coordinates the circle from its center. Participants contribute by playing various percussion instruments broken down by tambour, such as woods, metals, shakers, scrapers, and of course drums. One World Rhythm provides a unique blend of both facilitated drum circle, jam session, rhythm-based games, and multimedia to create an atmosphere that’s both inviting and engaging for all of its participants. Each OWR event is custom tailored to the needs of the client, and each event becomes its own “in the moment music making experience..”
Keep in mind that rhythm-based events are more about sharing a creative experience with one another than they are about knowing how to play a musical instrument. When music becomes effortless, a fun and magical spark is lit within the circle and the location becomes alive with energy that can only be felt firsthand.
For event planners, it’s a good idea to begin planning and booking your rhythm-based events several months in advance. Depending on the size of your event, you should plan for a two or three month lead time to insure for adequate planning and to allow the facilitator time to develop a custom package based on your group size, type of event, and objectives you wish to achieve. Hosting a birthday party will certainly have a different set of objectives than hosting a corporate retreat or team building session for example.
One of the questions that is often asked by event planners is, “How much is this going to cost?” The cost of rhythm-based events depends on several factors: such as how many participants you expect to have, the duration of the event, and of course the travel distance for the facilitator. Once those numbers have been settled on, a quote can be issued. Because of the various factors involved, a price could range between several hundred dollars and several thousand dollars, which includes both instruments for your participants to use, as well as a facilitator(s).
Another question that arises is the spatial requirements involved. Rhythm-based events have been conducted in the smallest of living rooms all the way up to sprawling park venues. It’s best to discuss your unique venue circumstances while in the planning stage with your facilitator so that your guests will have the best experience possible. As a general rule, with rhythm events the more room the better. However, having a huge field is not a requirement unless you’re looking at having 500 or more participants that is.
I’ve just given you some information about planning a rhythm-based event, but what if you’re soon to be a participant or a spectator? Well you’re in for a totally unique and fun experience. Remember, these events are all about having a great time and sharing your creative side with others. If you’re willing to give new things a try, you’re a perfect candidate for a rhythm-based event. You may want to wear clothes that you can move freely in. You’ll also want to remove any rings or jewelry such as bracelets or watches prior to playing your drum so as not to damage your personal property, the instrument, or injure yourself. Your facilitator will make sure you’re fully prepared to begin prior to the start of your rhythm event. The rest is complete magic.
Well like anything else, the more you put into the activity the more you’ll gain from it. Either way, you’ll discover your creative child just waiting to come out and play.
For more information on public rhythm events or to host your own, please contact One World Rhythm at (818) 332-0679 or on our web site at http://www.oneworldrhythm.com. We hope to hear from you soon.
Until next time, we’ll see you in the circle.
