Tuesday, January 08, 2008

First day and a drumming circle

Yesterday and today were exciting at the University - students in the halls, classes in the rooms - my anticipation always pays off. I enjoy sitting quietly in my office between semesters but I also enjoy the stimulation of having people around - lots of action.

Last night my daughter and I joined a drumming circle. A friend of mine told me that she had been attending this drumming circle and she thought I would enjoy it.

She was so right. I'm told that typically there are only about 6 people in this particular circle but last night there was 12 people. Two of the members were visitors from Ecuador - aboriginal healers.

What I enjoyed about the circle was both the need to concentrate but the lack of need to 'stick with the notes' My training in music was always note bound - play what was written.

Here the rhythms ruled - Maxine, the leader would explain and begin a rhythm but the rhythm quickly morphed into a pleasant combination of sound and paces.

Each set of rhythms lasted between 15 and 20 minutes - as I settled into the action I could feel myself being immersed in the motions and the sounds - a very pleasant feeling.

I'll be attending more

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