Drum Circle

      
Thomas Deerheart and those amazing drums!

Press:  Wayne Independent Newspaper, Honesdale, PA.
April 2010

Drum Circles: a Crazy Religion? Or is it just plain Fun?

The nights have definitely heated up here in Honesdale, with the multitude of artistic events at the Philip Hone Gallery. Our fore runner is the Drum Circle, however the most controversial yet. 

I have been asked “exactly what is that?”  

Drum circles are held all over the world and just as diverse are the types of drum circles there are.  From Africa to the Native American to the Japanese to Polynesian the consistent threads are the drum and the spirit of those whom gather.  It is a facilitator of communication! Simply said it is a gathering of the community; coming together with music and dance.

Traditionally and through-out history, music has been used from communication between tribes over long distances, to religious ceremonies, healing, and just plain old appreciation.

Our version of a drum circle is rather simple; it is similar to an introductory group of sorts.  Playing host to our “Drum circle” is Thomas Deerheart whom heads up this growing group of drummers.  This is a musical event that allows the public to experience the tradition and power of the energy without any religious undertones.

You don’t need to know anything about drums or even be musical!  The drums are merely an instrument used to release creativity and explore live music through an expression of self – empowerment.

Beginners are always welcome.  In fact children are encouraged to interact with adults and build community structures through the rhythm.

The evening starts off quite nicely meeting the friendly musicians and seeing their vast array of instruments, upon a brief introduction and a few comments from the circle, the leader starts the drum circle.  After the beat has been started; each person who joined the group enhances the sound with their own soulful notes.   The large drums have a thunderous sound that vibrates down through the body. 

In the rhythm of the drum circle, spontaneous changes are natural and unique to the moment, affected only by the emotions of the groups and the unity they achieve.

If you would like to find out more about drum circles I invite you to attend the event and judge for yourself! Our gallery is the Philip Hone Gallery located on 742 Main Street in Honesdale.  We will be hosting a monthly “Drum Circle” event by Thomas Deerheart,  the next one is on April 11^th from 4-6pm.  Coffee & Cake will be served, and the event is open for all. A donation is suggested, but not required.