How to Start Up a Drum Circle

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Get some drums and other percussion instruments.

   such as:
   Djembes, Doumbeks, Tablas, Congas, tambourines, Shakers or any other hand drum.
   
   Don't forget frame drums! Another good idea is to have some sort of bass drum, such as a sangba or surdo.
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   Step 2: Steer away from electronics.

   Drum circles are usually tribal in nature, so crazy electronic or technical instruments such as keyboards, drums sets, and electric guitars are not recommended. ,, Set up in a real circle so that everybody may see and hear one another.
   
   Irregular blob shapes make for choppy or chaotic environments. , If it gets too spread out, you lose connection.
   
   For massive circles, create levels with center circle on the floor, next on chairs, outside standing. ,,,, This is not really necessary once you have some experience as a facilitator, beginners get the idea very quickly. ,,, start off slow and wait for a good moment for you to come in. , good vibes = a great drum circle. , One mutually supportive game is to play a few beats, and let others add beats to that, and keep adding a few beats until a whole new and unpredictable rhythm is created! , Playing too loud or too long will not endear your drum circle to the rest of the community.
   
   Think about what you REALLY want to accomplish.
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   Step 3: Get enough instruments for one to five people

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   Step 4: or more.

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   Step 5: Don't forget the obvious: a "drum circle" is a circle!

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   Step 6: Create circles within circles once the circle is bigger than 20 participants.

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   Step 7: Find a nice outdoor location for your drum circle

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   Step 8: like a big backyard

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   Step 9: or a nearby park so people from the public can join in.

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    Step 10: Always welcome those who walk in and want to join the fun.

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    Step 11: Go indoors if it is going to be chilly

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    Step 12: or wet

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    Step 13: or dark.

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    Step 14: Have at least one person who has a little experience so he/she can start the beats and/or maintain a steady motion.

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    Step 15: Understand that rhythms are spontaneous

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    Step 16: one person starts a beat or a rhythm then someone else adds on to it

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    Step 17: so on and so forth.

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    Step 18: Start off with slow beats and vibes

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    Step 19: eventually the drum circle will rise with adrenaline but you have to let it happen

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    Step 20: don't force it.

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    Step 21: Don't be shy or timid

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    Step 22: drum circles are supposed to be fun.

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    Step 23: Be friendly and admire each others' attempts and making music.

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    Step 24: Play friendly and supportive

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    Step 25: don't get involved in competitive or aggressive playing.

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    Step 26: Remember that we all share the space with our neighbors!

Detailed Guide

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