Drum Circles 101: Everything you need to know before joining a drum circle

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. 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 moment to listen before starting. Yield to the musical “right of way.” Like a traffic circle, those already in the circle have the right of way—adjust your playing to that flow.

2. Be present. Turn off your cell phone, unplug, and focus on the music.

3. Respect the space. Please don’t have loud conversations in the circle while participants are drumming—it distracts from the music and the experience. Talking between songs is fine, but if you want to engage in conversation while the drumming is taking place, please step outside the circle.

4. Treat instruments with care. Always ask before playing someone else’s drum. If you borrow an instrument, handle it with respect and return it when you’re done. If damage or loss occurs, it’s your responsibility to repair or replace it.

5. Express yourself freely. Don’t worry about being “right” or “perfect.” If you feel lost or confused, listen for the main beat (the downbeat) and jump back in when you’re ready.

6. Protect the drums. If you wear rings on your fingers, it’s best to remove them or leave them at home so you don’t damage your drum (or anyone else’s drum).

7. 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.

8. Keep personal grievances out of the circle. The drum circle is not the place for arguments or interpersonal disputes. If you have an issue with another member, please resolve it privately and not during our time together. The focus of the circle is on community, music, and positive energy—let’s keep it that way.

9. Keep the circle a safe space. Respect your fellow drummers. No one in the circle has the right to judge, criticize, put down, or verbally or physically abuse any other participant—for ANY reason. 

10. Dancing is welcome and encouraged.

11. Have fun and enjoy yourself.

12. Bring your heart and a positive attitude, and let’s drum together!