Merry Meet and Merry Part, and Merry Meet again

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Drumming Circle

Last Friday, before the onslaught of Irene, my husband and I experienced a terrific evening with a group of people that truly had an impact on us. We headed down to Oswego NY on the shores of  Lake Ontario to The Fey Dragon. This is the new metaphysical shop of Mary Hudson, friend, pagan chaplain (who officiated at our daughter's wedding) and now, a source of community and fellowship among pagans in Central New York.

There were about fifteen people gathered to embark on an evening of drumming. Using African drums of varying sizes, hand symbols, rhythm sticks, maracas and other shakers, a rhythm was established and off we went. Being total novices at this, my husband and I tentatively, at first, drummed with our hands on borrowed African drums. No one batted an eye if we got out of rhythm. Soon we were drumming along with everyone and totally immersed in the beat. Ten minutes or so of drumming, then we would stop and chat. A new beat was begun, and away we would all go again. I cannot tell you how exhilarating  this experience was. Joining together in a primal rhythm with everyone, building slowly to a faster pace, then slowing back down, following the lead drummer. The energy that was raised was so strong and positive. You could almost see it as the patterns of drumming rose and fell. Vibrations up and down our arms, from our hands to our spirits. I never knew this kind of activity could release tensions, soothe the mind and generate such contentment and power.

We drummed for two hours with little breaks in between. The friendly atmosphere was a tonic! This drumming circle will meet on the fourth Friday of every month and my husband and I plan on going every month. We are even browsing the internet for our own drums. If you have never tried a drumming circle, I do so highly recommend it. What a wonderful way to spend an evening. You will have a sense of euphoria for hours, believe me!!

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15 comments:

OmaLindasOldeBaggsandStuftShirts said...

Awhile back there was a drumming group here and my daughter and I went once a month. It was fantastic to just as you said be a part of the rhythm....kinda loose yourself in the beats. What a joy it was. Ours disbanded but we as a family still drum and it is super for all of us.
Congratulations on finding a very special activity and new folks to mingle and enjoy.
Oma Linda

Sandy Sandy Art said...

I love drumming and have joined various circles from time to time. Be sure to check out the great Native American Drums that are available too Robin!

Robin Larkspur said...

Linda, what a great family activity!!


Spirit: I actually am looking at Native American drums, and the celtic bodhran. I would love to incorporate a variety of percussion into the Drumming.

mxtodis123 said...

I love drumming, can easily loose myself in the beat. I bought the most magnificent drumming CD from one of our subway entertainers, and alas, someone took it from my desk. Never did find that guy again.
Mary

Magic Love Crow said...

Robin, I would love to do this! I have been involved with several pow-wows and it's a similar experience. When the head person is drumming and then you are invited into the circle to dance and let yourself go. It's an experience, that I can't even begin to explain. Have a great day my friend ;o)

Witchy said...

That sounds pretty amazing! I will definitiely try to join a drum cirlce in the future. Making it a family activity also sounds amazing!

Lady Caer Morganna said...

How wonderful that you have been able to experience the positive energy of a drumming circle! They ARE great, aren't they?

I was totally blown away the first time I was ever involved in one many years ago and from time to time I join in with Lady Sabrina Rhiannon's group. Very spiritual and fun!!

Robin Larkspur said...

Mary: I hate that someone took your Drumming CD. Hugs.

Stacy: Oh, I can imagine how spiritual dancing at a POW-WOW would be. How lucky you are to be able to do experience that!!

Witchy: I hope you can find a circle near you. You can Google drumming circles for your area.

Kim: Fantastic connection indeed!!

Anonymous said...

I love drums so I think I would love this even if I´m not a pagan. It must be fun to meet with others as well with the same believes.

Have a great day!
Christer.

Robin Larkspur said...

Christer, you certainly do not have to be pagan to enjoy drumming, or benefit from it. Give it a try!

Debra She Who Seeks said...

Yes, drumming is WONDERFUL, isn't it? Your description of it is right on! I have facilitated a monthly women's drumming circle for 10 years now. Check out the sidebar label WDGCC on my blog if you'd like to read more about my Circle.

Robin Larkspur said...

Debra, you are amazing! How am I coming to drumming so late?

Jess said...

How lovely! I've always wanted to do drumming together in a group. I'm a bit shy to do something like that but maybe one day?xx

Tamara said...

Drum circles are amazing!! It's almost hypnotic...and the energy that is raised in unison...i love them. I'm so glad you discovered it. :) Being new in the area, i haven't attended in a couple months but recently found out there is one here that meets twice a month. They take the summers off because of the heat. We will def be going and No2 son will be joining the drummers...should be awesome! :) Thanks for sharing your amazing evening.

Anonymous said...

How delightful! I have never attended a drum circle but one day I plan too. This looks and sounds so amazing!