PROJECT

Abstract and Goals

Title of Project: Drum Therapy
Abstract of Project: In studying percussion, I have noticed some of the benefits and would like to start a program teaching drum therapy to different groups. The presentation I have put together will last about 45 minutes. I will cover some of the history of drum circles, and talk about why drum circles are used in our community today. I will spend some time going over 3 different drumming techniques while playing, and for the remainder of the time, we will go through some activities together that may differ depending on the group.

Larger Purpose: To spend time together in a social setting and practice communicating without words. In a society that increasingly lives online, I want to take a piece of time and focus on being in sync with a group, being a leader, and opening yourself up to new opportunities. I want to teach people that everyone can be a musician and that drumming has always been a strong form of building community through rhythm.

Project Goal: Teach various groups of humans about drum therapy and drum circles and assess if it allows them to develop their social skills. Become a better teacher and leader and know how to apply myself to varying groups.

1-3 Outcome(s)

Deliverable(s) At the end of this process, I want to have made a compilation of my journey through all the different groups. I want to talk to the different group and assess how the groups received the music.

Differentiation: I love to perform music because it helps me to connect to myself, and to really process my emotions and thoughts. I want to share that with others. I want to be not only a performer, but a teacher in the way that I perform. I want to take what music has taught me and pass it onto others, not just keep it a secret. I want my project to benefit more people than just myself.

Estimated Costs: SUU is willing to let me borrow their equipment along with some drums that I already have for my project so the only expenses I foresee is gas money to get to the places that I want to go and possibly renting an SUU vehicle so that I can transport all the instruments to different locations around the area.

Estimated Timeline: November 2011 - December 2016
First I will need to make a project outline and compile all my resources. Put together a presentation that will last about 45 minutes. I need to contact different schools, programs, and centers that might let me come present my project to them. I will also need to compile my video footage into a program to document my process. Over the course of about 2 months, I anticipate about 40 hours of work.