Drums have been with us longer than any other instrument. They are man’s best musical friend, fulfilling our need for movin’ and groovin’ since the first records of man-made drums in 5500 B.C.
While drums have had a huge variety of purposes in history (from use in rituals and ceremonies to battles and communication over large distances) we mainly use them today for enjoyment and connection.
Playing in a band, taking lessons, participating in a drumming circle, or making your own drums with household objects are just a few of many ways you can bring the joy and excitement of drumming into your everyday life, no matter your age or schedule. Let’s explore a few of the benefits you can expect when you decide to take up drumming.
Guaranteed Mood Booster & Stress Relief
A good drumming session leaves you feeling more relaxed, refreshed and energized, no matter how you felt at the start of the session. The science supports this – a study at the Royal College of Music, London, found that 10 weeks of group drumming sessions reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression plus boosted overall mental wellbeing in participants at a mental health organization.
Promotes a Healthy Lifestyle
As well as being a good workout (especially if you’re a lively player), drumming is great for the brain. It improves coordination, creativity, memory, and internal sense of rhythm, while giving the brain a workout too. Studies carried out by President of the Yamaha Music & Wellness Institute Barry Bittman, M.D., show that regular group drumming can boost your immune system by increasing the production of natural disease-fighting cells in your body.
Connect With Others
The drums are one of the most social instruments out there. The process of moving our bodies to a beat (for example when we dance or tap our foot) is called “entrainment.” There is some evidence that this is in our genes, as studies show even newborn babies can entrain to a beat. When a group of people all entrain to the same beat, all moving in sync, our social bonds become stronger, and we build trust and connection throughout the whole group. This reminds me of line dancing with friends at a fun event. As a drummer, you are given the amazing opportunity to be the backbone of the music, leading the beat, and making a rhythmic connection with everyone in the room.
In addition to finding band members, drummers develop into great networkers, they are naturally inquisitive, enjoy meeting new people and forming new circles of friends with a shared love of music.
How Can I Get Started?
While you might be considering taking lessons or checking out marching bands, there’s no need to wait to start adding drumming into your day-to-day activities. Without a drum kit, you can make a groove by tapping your feet, clapping your hands or drumming on a solid surface and playing along to your favorite songs. You might even try out a smaller option like the bongos, or a drum pad which straps onto your knee!
Drumming is a fun and freeing activity which humans have been doing for centuries. Don’t be put off by the complicated setup of a standard drum kit. There are endless ways to drum and bring some extra rhythm and groove to your life!
Ray Cyr (drum teacher) at Studio 237 Music Lessons will help you find your beat. Call (850)231-3199 to schedule a visit to the studio. We also offer lessons on piano, guitar (acoustic, bass, electric, classical), voice, ukulele and songwriting. Website: www.Studio237Music.com.
