For so much of the day yesterday, I didn't think a drum circle was going to work at the SoM picnic. The constant drizzle all morning. Fear that the ground would be too wet. Or that it would have to be set up too far from where people had gathered.
And then the sun came out. The ground, it turned out, wasn't all that soggy, especially near the tent. It was even dry enough for some to sit on.
The new drum circle facilitators did a great job setting things up, welcoming people, and conducting the circle when it was that time.
A comment is not required on this post. At the same time, I'd love to read about your experience, and how the outdoor circle contrasted with the in-class experiences we've had together.
We'll be doing another drum circle this coming Friday at the all-campus "DePauwpalooza." Ideas for making that one even better?
I thought it went well, at least as long as I was able to stay. The biggest difference/difficultly I saw was getting people to join. Since they don't have to participate, as we do in class, a lot of the people I asked to join didn't want to. It was really disappointing. But I (and the other inviters) did get a relatively large group to participate which was really rewarding! As for next week, I would say knowing beforehand where we are setting up would be helpful so we can spread the word earlier.
ReplyDeleteIt was difficult getting people to join. But it was really entertaining to watch the people who did come over as they started out really shy and gradually warmed up to it. I think maybe if people had known why we were there, more would've joined. To me, it seemed as if most people thought we were just messing around and having fun. I mean, we were, but there's also the story of drum circle culture and it's effects on the body, mind and community which you can't really witness- you have to learn it through practice.
ReplyDeleteI have to agree with Sydney and Bea - I found it difficult to invite people. However, I was surprised to see how much attention we got from the crowd. As we were moving our drums, several students began to set their eyes on the drums. While we were playing in the drum circle, I realized some other students were looking at us and enjoying.
ReplyDeleteFor the next Drum Circle, we could start with someone leading the rhythm and run around to catch everyone's attention. Then, of course, we could invite them to join us. I do have a question though - can the circle surrounds a huge crowd instead of just having our own little world? It would be great if someone could lead the "dancing" part, or simply enjoying the rhythm, to help other to immerse into the drum beats.