Circles of Rhythm Foundation

The Circles of Rhythm Foundation (CORF) is a Calgary society created to bring the Integrated Community Drum Circle to people and organizations who could not otherwise afford it.

The Foundation has been quieter in recent years while we plan its next chapter. If you would like to be part of it, as a partner, a volunteer or a supporter, we would love to hear from you.

Our Vision

Helping humanity live fully through rhythm.

Our Mission

To inspire human connection, health and wellbeing through community drumming.

Our Values

Connection, Love, Growth, Unity, Joy

Learn More about our Values & what they mean to us.

Connection

Service:

Serving others, society, and humanity is among the highest privileges and responsibilities we can undertake. Engaging with the Integrated Community Drum Circle (ICDC) offers a unique opportunity to fulfill this service, whether as participants, volunteers, board members, or facilitators.

Safety:

The ICDC community drum circle is akin to a “safe house on the hill,” a space where one feels included, empowered, and free to express themselves, all while being unconditionally loved and accepted. Such environments are a rarity, providing a sanctuary for all.

Inclusivity:

In our quest, we’ve yet to encounter a community as inclusive as the ICDC, where everyone – regardless of their physical or mental condition – feels empowered and successful. Witnessing an elderly woman, confined to her hospital bed yet participating with a simple egg-shaker, epitomizes our commitment to inclusivity. Here, everyone is welcomed, engaged, and celebrated.

Diversity:

The ICDC recaptures the essence of communal gatherings like barn dances or potlucks, where diversity is not just present but celebrated. In our modern world, where genuine community experiences are scarce, the ICDC stands as a beacon for unity, joy, and celebration.

Love

Love of Self and Others:

The distant sound of a drumbeat naturally calls to us, symbolizing the heartbeat of our community. When drums are played, love vibrates through both the player and those around, encapsulating love in its most pure, vibrational form. It’s a universal language where words are unnecessary, and the rhythm speaks to the heart, fostering a shared experience of connection, love, growth, unity, and joy.

Growth

Transformation:

Change is fleeting, but transformation endures. The experience of an ICDC drum circle can alter one’s life profoundly. Attendees might enter feeling weary or burdened, but leave ignited with a passion that persists. Regular participation in ICDCs holds the power for deep, lasting transformation.

Evolution:

Life is a journey of continuous evolution, where change is constant, often subtle, and sometimes unnoticed. Choosing to engage with communities like the ICDC, where peace, joy, and connection are intentional, encourages personal growth and evolution towards greater joy, inspiration, health, and wellbeing.

Hope, Courage, Bravery:

Witnessing a group of strangers unite through the rhythm of drums in an ICDC instills hope. It’s a testament to humanity’s potential for unity and understanding, despite differences. This environment nurtures bravery, providing solace in a world that often feels divided, and fostering courage to embrace new experiences and perspectives.

Courage to Try Something New:

The concept of an ICDC might seem unconventional at first, yet it represents a fresh approach to fostering health, wellbeing, and community. It’s an invitation to discover joy and playfulness through rhythm, offering a new hope for individuals and for society at large.

Unity

Synergy:

In an era marked by disconnection and fragmentation, the ICDC stands out as a beacon of unity. Here, synergy thrives, fostering a space where creativity blossoms. It teaches us the balance of listening as we speak, of pausing as we move, and of finding stillness amidst life’s rush. This synergy emerges when we slow down, deeply connecting with ourselves, each other, and something greater.

Vitality:

In today’s world, where a sense of numbness or disengagement often dims our spirit, finding environments that rekindle our vitality is rare. The ICDC is such a place, where life force energy flows freely, reigniting our spirits with energy, awareness, and a much-needed sense of being awake in these challenging times.

Acceptance:

Embracing life in all its facets – the highs, the lows, and everything in between – is no small feat. Too often, we get caught up in life’s struggles, overlooking our innate capacity for creativity and improvement. The ICDC offers a powerful counterforce, a space where focus shifts from the mundane to the miraculous. While science might not fully validate it, decades of experience in the ICDC community demonstrate its efficacy. Participants aren’t shielded from life’s challenges, but they gain the resilience to navigate them with grace, a testament to the transformative power of acceptance and community.

Joy!

Playfulness:

In a world where adulthood often equates to seriousness and self-consciousness, stepping into an ICDC drum circle is like stepping back into childhood. Here, playfulness is not just encouraged; it’s the norm. Smiles broaden, shoulders drop, and the joy of simple play becomes the best medicine for the soul.

Creative Expression:

Creativity isn’t confined to traditional arts. Within the circle, each participant is encouraged to explore their own rhythm, contributing to the collective beat while expressing themselves. This form of creative expression is vital for a fulfilling life, offering a unique avenue to meet this intrinsic human need.

Mindfulness:

The ICDC offers a straightforward path to mindfulness. In our fast-paced world, focusing on the present can be challenging, but here, mindfulness is as simple as keeping in time with the drum. The practice allows for a mental reset, reaping all the benefits that come with being fully present.

Experiential Learning:

The journey from thought to feeling is often long, but in an ICDC, this distance is bridged effortlessly. Engaging the whole brain and body, the rhythm becomes a conduit for connecting heart and mind. It’s not just about discussing or pondering; it’s about doing. This hands-on approach is key to achieving true health, wellbeing, and connection, embodying our values of Connection, Love, Growth, Unity, and Joy.

Community Drum Circles

Community drum circles bring people together around one shared rhythm. We gather in a circle and play drums from around the world together, guided by a trained ICDC facilitator. The joyful, uplifting effect of the drum is infectious. Our unique integrative approach brings in body, mind, emotions and spirit. Everyone is included and seen as a significant contributor to the sound we create together. No experience is required; everyone has rhythm. Our facilitation techniques create an accessible and empowering experience in which everyone leaves feeling successful and significant.

Making a difference, one beat at a time!

RECOVERY, RESILIENCY, & RECONCILIATIONthrough RHYTHM

The Circles of Rhythm Foundation’s (CORF) aim is to bring the benefits of the Integrated Community Drum Circles (ICDC) to those affected by “The Three R’s”: Recovery, Resiliency, & Reconciliation. The UNITY annual fundraiser along with government grants will help fund the important mission of the CORF & other commUNITY agencies who are supporting affected marginalized populations in Calgary and the surrounding area.

THE THREE-R’s

RESILIENCY- servicing people who

RECOVERY- servicing people who

RECONCILIATION - honouring & supporting our

PROGRAMMING & COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

INTEGRATED COMMUNITY DRUM CIRCLE

Offering, affordable Integrated Community Drum Circle (ICDC) programming to Non-Profit Organizations who otherwise could not afford to fund “one off” -or- ongoing community offerings.
“One off” bookings
10-week programs
Year long, monthly drumming programs.

SUSTAINABILTY & LASTING PROGRAM INTEGRATION

TRAINING PROGRAM, CONSULTATION SERVICE, & MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

Providing customized training workshops to Non-Profit Organizations looking to offer sustainable programming using the Integrated Community Drum Circle (ICDC) methodology.
- 2-3 day trainings Level I & Level II programing
- Learning materials & facilitator training manual
- Subsidized “Drum Kit”
Funding mentorship, coaching, and supervision hours offered by Circles of Rhythm Master ICDC Facilitators to optimize learning & integration into agency.
- 1 on 1 coaching/consulting
- Group facilitation & integration seminars
- Facilitator skill evaluation & mentorship program

COMMUNITY AWARENESS & PUBLIC SERVICE

FUNDRAISERS & PUBLIC EVENTS - Aligned with “The 3-R’s”

Using the Integrated Community Drum Circle (ICDC) to raise awareness of a social cause, bringing people together through rhythm. Social causes must be consistent with “The 3-R’s”.
- Larger events
- Festivals
- Community Gathering

WHO QUALIFIES FOR FUNDING? HOW DO I APPLY?

Examples of Clients we have Served

Circles of Rhythm has offered community drum circles across the province for over 20 years, in settings such as:

Women’s Shelters
Boys and Girls Clubs
Youth Addictions Services
Private events for ill friends and family
Kids Camps
Funerals and Memorial Services
Eating Disorder Groups
Hospices
AA and AL-ANON meetings
Addictions Recovery Centers
Penitentiaries
Seniors Centers

If you wish to make a donation/contribution to the Foundation, please contact the Circles of Rhythm Foundation at:

info@circlesofrhythm.com

Thank you for your unconditional generosity!

Agencies interested in bringing the ICDC to their organization will need to apply to the Circles of Rhythm Foundation (CORF) for approval.

Applications will be reviewed by the CORF based on the following:
- Alignment of CORF vision and mission with the applicant
- The applicant’s client population served falls under “The 3-R’s”
- The applicant agrees to actively participate and contribute towards the development of a sustainable & meaningful community for their clientele (ei: staff support & participation, promotion of service to clients & community, financial commitment to offset for subsidy received by the CORF)

**Funding provided by the CORF is intended to subsidize regular rates based on the Circles of Rhythm booking regular rates.

***The CORF is not yet equipped to accept applications – if you or your agency is interested in applying in the future, please contact us directly to be placed on our waiting list.

If you wish to make a donation/contribution to the foundation, please contact at:

info@circlesofrhythm.com

Past Events

UNITY: First Annual Fundraiser, June 15, 2019

UNITY: Recovery, Resiliency, Reconciliation: Rhythm. The Foundation’s first annual fundraiser, held in Calgary on Saturday, June 15, 2019. Community members came together around the drum to raise support for bringing the ICDC to people affected by the Three R’s.

UNITY: December 13, 2019

The Foundation’s second UNITY gathering of 2019, held in Calgary on Friday, December 13, 2019. Thank you to everyone who joined us and supported the Foundation that year.

…one of many more collaborations not to be missed!

Thank you for your unconditional generosity!

Making a difference, one beat at a time!

Testimonials

What People Say

“You cant stay grouchy at a drum circle, the joy is contagous!”

“Thank you once again for sharing your gift.”

“This really grounded me and also lightened my heart”

“To be moved to tears while participating in your session was a true surprise to me.”

“Clearly, drumming fills my soul to overflowing. I loved it!”

“This work is ultimately about revitalizing, invigorating and inspiring.”

“The Best drum circle facilitators I have experienced.” Suncor Energy

“We are thrilled to have the World Expert Drum Circle Facilitator right here in Calgary.” Suncor Energy

“Thanks for making the drum experience available to everyone” Telus

“I will never forget this conference because of the drum circle.” Enmax

“It was not only fun, but educational and inspirational.” Husky Energy

“I think we should return to the drum circle as a kick off every year at our annual conference.” Trans Canada

“Rather than just beating our own drums, we became a part of something bigger than ourselves.” Agrium

“This was a very tough and sceptical crowd, but everyone benefited immensely from it” Myers Norris Penny

“I feel refreshed, re-energized, peaceful and serene. I just feel better!” Banff Centre for Managment

“Absolutely fantastic!” Suncor Energy

“This was an experience where everyone contributed equally to the whole” Talisman Energy

“It broke down barriers and got us working really well together as a team.” Royal Bank

“We can play our own beat and still contribute to the whole” Royal Host

“We experienced successful communication and teamwork with virtually no words!” EnCana

“The most effective, accessible and fun team event ever!” City of Calgary

“It really re-energized us after a tough cerebral day”

“The Boom Whackers are magical; they really brought people from our region together.”

“Judy has a profound way of putting into words what is un-talked about at work, love, spirit and joy!”

“The three words that best describe this workshop are joyful, playful and profound.”

Nate Brewster

Julien was great to deal with and our group had a great time! Would recommend!!

Mandelle Hoover

For the past two days, I participated in the integrated community drum circle training with Circles of Rhythm. My colleagues and I all shared the sentiment that this was one of the most educational and meaningful experiences of our lives! I am so grateful for the knowledge shared by Julien LePage (Executive Director of Circles of Rhythm) and Marcus Fung (Earth Sound Harmony and Wellness). Their unique backgrounds and ways of explaining concepts made learning inclusive and stimulating for all different minds. The differing facilitation techniques taught were transferable to practice in wonderful, layered ways we couldn’t have anticipated! Our group members are all recreation therapy professionals working in care homes (different levels of care). All participants have varying comfort and experience facilitating music/drum-based programming. This course provided us with the knowledge and confidence we need to be able to run an inclusive drumming circle (Level 1). This experience created a deep sense of connection, personal growth, joy, and play—while feeling safe and energizing! All participants left feeling reenergized, motivated, and increasingly grounded in our practice. The team building and relations that were built or solidified during this training will continue to benefit us and the residents we support. On a final note, as someone who absolutely can’t sit still and sometimes gets the giggles in groups and educational experiences... I felt not just accepted, but celebrated in my movement. Free to express myself, authentically. As I reflect, I feel grounded in myself as an inherently musical being. I feel motivated to help others celebrate being alive and making music. Thank you so very much for this deeply beneficial experience and knowledge. I hope others will take this training!!

Kimiko Hirakida

I had the absolute pleasure of participating in a drum circle as part of a conference in Calgary for young leaders in the aquatics field. What an absolute delight. The workshop was so fun, inclusive and added a lot of value to our event. We did this first, right after our opening address, we set the tone for our whole conference with this impactful hour. HIGHLY recommend!

Mickala Escobar - Morton

Magical and healing ❤️‍🩹 ✨🪘

Tania Mathews

I’ve only been to a few circles but will be going more. They are so welcoming, peaceful and healing. So grateful this is available to anyone.

Susan Jensen (Chi Spot Wellness)

I attended my first drum circle last night and I wonder what took me so long? The inclusive nature of the authentic, accepting community and the fun of drumming left me relaxed and at peace. I will definitely be back.

Brian Hampton

We have come numerous times over the years and loved it. However last night we sat through 3 rounds of the inner circle drumming and found it was too long and we didn’t get to experience the synchronized drumming we were used to. We brought our 3 guys and they don’t think they will be coming back.

Silvia Florea

Hi guys. I had the Best time ever joining your training show. I like music a lot and plaing the drums.

Sue Silverman

Circles of Rhythm Friday night drum circles and the wellness team building events are stellar. I feel so welcomed and part of the community. No drumming experience needed. Its an invitation to be part of an open- hearted community and to feel a sense of myself again especially during these chaotic times. Thank you Julien and your team for your vision which really fosters love and unity.

Circles of Rhythm Foundation