2019 Annual Conference

Group drumming has historical roots in many cultures as a form of recreation, creative expression, and community building.  It is also frequently used for therapeutic purposes in a variety of healthcare service settings.  Group drumming is a natural fit in recreational therapy practice since recreational music making is accessible to individuals of diverse ages and abilities. Several evidence-based programs and protocols exist to guide practitioners in structuring therapeutic interventions. This session provides a general overview of group drumming with an emphasis on its relevance for recreational therapy practice.  The history of group drumming, necessary equipment, possible benefits/outcomes, and current evidence supporting its use will be reviewed. Multiple programs will be spotlighted as examples, and participants will be introduced to specific activity ideas and facilitation techniques through experiential learning. Available resources and additional opportunities for recreational therapy professionals to incorporate group drumming into their professional practice will also be discussed.