X8 Community Drummer Spotlight: Sabrina T.

Recently, I started participating in a local drum circle at the YMCA. I had participated before in drum circles, but hadn't been able to lately. I asked my Mom if she wanted to go and she was hooked.

I think the main benefit I get from drumming at drum circles is stress relief. I have a high stress job and when I get to go to the drum circle once a month, it puts my mind at ease for a few hours. I feel like I am in a trance and all my worries float away. My favorite part of the drum jam is learning new rhythms and getting over my fear of putting myself out there with a new rhythm. I have learned so much from it and I think drumming builds my confidence too. I'm not so scared to participate anymore.

I love learning and I think drumming teaches you NOT to be afraid to make a mistake. The circle is so friendly that we laugh and continue on. The drum I mainly use is the djembe and I would like to learn the kuku.

I think others should try drumming because the amount of stress relief it gives you is amazing. If you have the right circle, there is absolutely NO stress when you mess up and NO worries about being perfect or making a mistake. Drum circle helps you gain courage to try something new and helps you with your coordination. I know that I had trouble using my left hand. I'm right hand dominant. Now, I realize that I can use either hand without too much of an issue.

I am also an American Tribal Style and Tribal Fusion Style belly dancer so drumming is a vital part of the dance. Learning to drum will definitely help me with that! Drumming is amazing and I encourage everyone to get out there and to try it at least once!

So stress, no worries, and a dancer's perspective on drums! Thank you for sharing your story with us, Sabrina!

Drummers, tell us why YOU love drumming and drum circles! We'd love to share your story, too!