Greetings and Welcome to Drumming and Health!

As a musician in Vancouver and world-wide for over 40 years, I have observed how music and rhythm, and more recently African drumming, appears to have a direct and positive impact on people’s mood and sense of well-being. I began to see how the age old experience of sharing and playing music together in community had the potential to point us toward a more healthy, engaged and passionate life. My musical role has shifted over time from performer to facilitator, becoming a musical guide who assists in setting the stage for people to explore personal health and creativity.

Many issues that are important for sustaining and supporting our children, families, and the health of the planet, such as literacy, inter-generational learning, spirituality and faith, communication, wellness, mentoring, awareness of indigenous cultures, leadership, stewardship, and peaceful coexistence can be addressed directly or metaphorically in a drum circle. The African drum is a powerful and evocative instrument that is accessible to everyone of any age, skill and mobility level. Whether a first time beginner or advanced drummer, participants often report a renewed state of balance, simultaneously relaxed and energized. Since 2006, MusicWorks has lead research studies, exploring the link between drumming and health.

Lyle Povah

“Lyle has the greatest drum circles! Bring your kids! Bring a drum if you have one, or come anyway if you don’t. Great fun! Lyle can take any group that has varied or even no experience, and can get the group making harmonized drumming and music in a short time. Love it!” Gary Towne

(more testimonials)

DRUM CIRCLE DESCRIPTION:

A drum circle is a rhythm-based event where people gather in a circle to
express themselves with African drums and percussion instruments. A
facilitator guides the session, encouraging and supporting people as they
reconnect with their innate sense of rhythm. The experience is at once
stimulating and relaxing, therapeutic and evocative, reminding us of a time
past when people gathered together to make music, sing and celebrate.
Inclusiveness is a core principle – people of all backgrounds, mobility, ages
and skill levels (even first-time beginners) can participate. The circle has
potential to teach us about community, intergenerational learning, creativity,
team building, spirituality, mentoring, wellness, and respect for other
cultures. It becomes a model for our world family, an opportunity to engage
in this age-old activity where young and old play and celebrate together.