Drum Circle Brings A Little Rhythm To EG

Joining a drumming circle turns out to be remarkably easy. At least it was for me last month when my son James and I decided to check out the drumming circle at St. Luke's after the monthly community supper there.

We are not drummers, James and I. But we got seats, took up a drum (me) and a tamborine (James) and started making rhythms. It was kind of magical. And it didn't hurt that there were a couple of real percussionists in the circle to help guide the beat. 

The idea for the drumming circle at St. Luke's came from Wesley Forsythe, who took over as sexton (custodian) at the church a few months ago. Forsythe had held a drumming circle in November at the Varnum Armory, but he was uncertain he'd get enough donations to cover the rental costs going forward. Shortly afterward, he got the job at St. Luke's and on a tour of the facilities, he saw several djembes – Malian drums – and got permission to use them for a drumming circle on the same night as the monthly Christ Community Kitchen suppers.

Last month was the first drumming circle at St. Luke's and the flow of musicians, young and old, experienced and not, was constant. Some of the participants drifted upstairs after the meal and used the djembes and other rhythm instruments available. Others came later, carrying their own instruments. 

The drumming circle will be back this coming Monday, following at supper of corned beef and cabbage in the dining room at St. Luke's. All are welcome to both.

The dinner begins at 5 p.m. It is free and open to all. Donations are accepted. The drumming circle starts after the dinner, but you do not need to be at the dinner to participate.