ABOUT

CIRCLES OF RHYTHM – Who we are.

Circles of Rhythm’s mission is to inspire human connection, health and wellbeing through community drumming. Since 1997, Circles of Rhythm has hosted their community drum circle event every Friday night, making it one of Canada’s top Drum Circle gatherings. Circles of Rhythm offers several wellness events, public, and private workshops renown for promoting teamwork, communication, and well-being through interactive drumming experiences utilizing the ICDC (Integrated Community Drum Circle).

WHAT IS AN ICDC?

The Integrated Community Drum Circle (ICDC) methodology provides a structured approach to drum circle facilitation. Circles of Rhythm has trained over 500 drum circle enthusiasts in ICDC facilitation, promoting holistic wellness for the individual and their communities utilizing interactive and collaborative rhythm-making activities. The ICDC empowers facilitators to leverage their unique gifts to create safe and supportive environments that foster creativity, teamwork, and self-expression.

CULTURAL APPRECIATION – Truth and Reconciliation

Circles of Rhythm values and respects all cultural traditions, including those of indigenous peoples in Canada. While the ICDC is not an Indigenous drumming ceremony, the organization supports indigenous truth and reconciliation by honouring and promoting local indigenous artists and cultural events, and regularly collaborating with local efforts for truth and reconciliation.

WHAT IS A DRUM CIRCLE?

Drum circles are musical gatherings in which people of all ages and skill levels come together to play hand drums, percussion instruments, and other rhythm-based instruments in an improvised and collaborative way. The focus of a drum circle is on creating rhythmic patterns and group harmony rather than performance, and they can be used for various purposes including team-building, stress relief, and community building.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE ICDC (i.e. The Friday Night Drum Circle)?

The Friday Night Drum Circle was designed to be an inclusive and fun space for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together and connect through music and rhythm-making, whether they are experienced drummers or novices. The event offers an opportunity for people to tap into their creativity and unleash their inner musician. It’s also a chance to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life and connect with others in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

The Friday Night Drum Circle is facilitated by experienced drum circle facilitators who provide guidance and structure for participants. The facilitators lead the group in various rhythm-based activities and exercises, encouraging participants to explore different rhythms and sounds and to experiment with their own improvisation. Through this process, participants can develop their musical skills, build their confidence, and enhance their overall well-being. It is a space where people can come together, have fun, and connect with others through the universal language of rhythm and music.

ARTICLES

Fransaskois drummer comes full circle

Alberta Health Services – Rhythm Project - Drumming Up Wellness

PODCAST INTERVIEWS

The Mystic Cave

With the blog: https://www.brianepearson.ca/post/rhythms-of-the-heart

On its own: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1577227/12327722

 

Julien Lepage of Circles of Rhythm with David MacElwain

https://www.youtube.com/live/DDoKyehqzsA?si=IwTnUNxxbvgnttMT

 

Let’s Develop Podcast!

010: Julien Lepage: It’s Not About Drumming: Community, Spirit, and Healing

https://owltail.app.link/UjhPuVuO0xb