Percussion in Parowan

A good friend of mine, Trevor Walker is now the director of bands in Parowan.

I asked if I could come over for a day, bring a bunch of drums, and teach his kids about communication through drumming.

All in all the experience was amazing, the kids were so involved, and everyone seemed to have a good time! I was so grateful to have these sorts of connections that I can teach and practice a program that I put together for the students.

We first explored the history of drum circles and talked about why they are used in today's society, took a tour of Africa and their instruments, and then we went over some techniques of drumming.

The students caught on quick, so we went right into some activities that helped them communicate with me and with each other. We played some versions of "Simon Says" and "Telephone" in a new way with drums and I loved getting this time to teach the students what I had practiced on my colleagues and teacher. It was a success to see a project that started as an idea so many years ago come to fruition! My very own program for a drum circle.

Getting feedback from the students was amazing and I love to hear what they had to say. When I asked what they learned at the end of the session here's what they had to say.

"We all have to listen to our neighbors more"

"Even though we are all different we are an important part of the group"

"If you're too loud, people won't listen to you."