Drumbeat


DRUMBEAT was developed in the wheatbelt of WA in 2003 as means to engage young Aboriginal men. It is now taught and used by young people and adults across Australia in schools, youth services, drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities, child protection residential facilities, mental health services, children's hospitals, refugee trauma associations and prisons.

DRUMBEAT is a flexible program that combines experiential learning with cognitive behavioural therapy, and engages young people and adults who may be anxious or resistant to 'talk based' therapies.

It is a therapeutic program using rhythm, developed by Holyoake to reach alienated young people of those at risk of problematic health and social outcomes.

DRUMBEAT explores relationship issues such as:
  • Peer Pressure
  • Bullying
  • Dealing with emotions
  • Identity
  • Social responsibility
  • Teamwork
DRUMBEAT promotes social understanding and connection through a team drumming experience. It is fun, safe, creative, engaging and rewarding. Participants lift their self-esteem, learn to work cooperatively and are exposed to the therapeutic and recreational benefits of music.
 
Watch some videos on the program here:
 



Great Links:
Research on drumming and 'at risk' adolescents in the USA

Complimentary therapies for addiction - Drumming out Drugs; Michael Winkelman PHD

Therapeutic effects of drumming

Arthur Hulls community drum-circle facilitation site

Perth based drumming classes

Article on drumming and Dyslexia

Article by Prof Susan Hallam on the Power of Music

Traditional African drumming site rhythm notation, sound files & video clips

The Song Room - Non profit organisation supporting music in Australian schools

West African Percussion - extensive list of notated rhythms

West Australian drumming group - school incursions, drum-circles & group drumming & dance classes

Chicago drumming project for 'at risk' youth
Article on drumming in music therapy

Perth based African drumming; lessons & performance

UK based drum information site

African drumming tuition and corporate workshops in Perth




Contact WrightRhyhms@yahoo.com for more information.