Drum Crazy is a team of facilitators, helping to lead impromptu orchestras in schools and businesses throughout the UK and Europe. Janey Walter, Marketing Director, and Peter Scott, Training Consultant, kicked off the annual conference with an original and energising session.

Each delegate was given a percussion instrument such as a drum, agogo bell, shaker or Boomwhackers (tuned tubes). Delegates were asked to play their instrument, whilst Janey directed the group – indicating variations in volume. It was quite cathartic to bang a drum loudly first thing on a Monday morning!

Janey then divided the room into sections, asking one group to continue, whilst others listened. Or she asked particular instruments to continue and others to stop. At times, one group were led by another: one group would listen to another before playing a complementary beat. Janey continued to work round the groups, whilst delegates were called upon to listen, watch, respond, lead and support.

In a school setting, such sessions have been used to energise and stimulate pupils, developing concentration, focus, listening and non-verbal communications skills. This has helped prepare them for other learning. Children find the sessions hugely enjoyable, and importantly, this allows children who lack confidence to take an active and full part. For a child with low self-esteem, to lead others and to be ‘in control’ can be very empowering.

A typical Drum Crazy day in a school involves a number of sessions with different groups – teachers and assistants usually want to join in. Later, pupils can put together a performance for parents and visitors – often employing some audience participation.

To find out more visit www.drumcrazy.co.uk

February 2005

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