Being part of a drum circle is a fun and engaging activity, and in order to make the most of your experience if you want to join in, there are some basic rules of etiquette to follow:
1. Perhaps the most important thing is to LISTEN to one another. Listen as much as you play. If you can’t hear most of the other drums, you are playing too loudly. When joining or rejoining an active circle, take a minute to listen before starting to play.
2. Turn off your cell phone, unplug, and focus on the music!
3. Don’t talk and have loud conversations in the circle while everyone else is drumming – it distracts from the music we are creating together. Talking between songs is fine, but if you want to engage in conversation while the drumming is taking place, please walk away from the circle.
4. Always ask first before playing someone else’s drum.
5. Don’t be afraid to express yourself. If you find yourself feeling confused or lost, listen for the main beat (the downbeat) of the rhythm, and jump back in.
6. If you wear rings on your fingers, it is better to take them off or leave them at home so you don’t damage your drum (or anyone else’s drum). Also, hand drums like djembes are meant to be played with the hands, and not with mallets or drum sticks, which can damage the heads of the drums.
7. Have fun and enjoy yourself!
8. Families and children are welcome to join us. If you are bringing children to the circle, please make sure they are supervised, willing to participate, and for everyone’s safety and wellbeing, please don’t allow them to run around the space where the drum circle is taking place.
I started drumming with, Michele (G.L.A.D.) eight months ago. I'm 67 and this is the best thing that's come into my life for a very long time! We come from all walks of life but have one thing in common. We love to drum! And we love spending time together! Thanks, Michele!