FreeStyle Rhythm

Freestyle Rhythm is any rhythm, tone, or culturally influenced beat that can be played together with no specific name, ethnically named beats or designation. It is similar to what you hear at some drum circles, but contains more of a specific pattern that combines many world percussive influences.

An example would be, instead of ayoub alone with the specific rhythms native to the pattern of ayoub, it would be a combination of ayoub and kuku. Some of the patterns played together can be considered polyrhythmic in comparison, but again, not a specific or counted pattern.

I have been taught some rhythms and beats, as well as tones for various instruments such as the djembe, bodhran, doumbek, frame drum, riqq, ikigala, and various other percussion instruments. I can play specific beats or rhythms that are proprietary to each instrument, but I do not play culturally significant songs (i.e. .

In addition, I can play various rhythms such as kuku, beladi, ayoub, taiko, samba, and jigs or reels, which these too can be combined for interesting sounds and high-energy performances.

My approach to drumming is that all drums and rhythms have their roots that make their sounds unique, specific, but able to be combined to make one sound, also unique and stylized. In this way, it adds more flavor and a true world fusion beat.

Playing with various drums from different parts of the world and joining them together in performance, to me, is a true symbol of unification. We are unique and special in our own way, and, as the drum, we can all play together nicely and create incredible music - together.

Passion for the Drum

Drums are magical because they can evoke peace, love, passion, ecstatic dance, emotions, and of course, war. They are a tremendous healing tool for those who are recovering from mental or physical maladies and have proven to help in many documented hospital cases. (read more...)

Drumming for health is three-fold:

Mental
Emotional
Physical

...but let's not forget, spiritual (for those who are spiritual!)

It has been shown; activities such as drum circles in an environment where team work or social interaction is an important part of the office or community dramatically increases productivity, mental alertness, physical stamina, and overall well-being.

The point here, is that it isn't the ethno-centric songs or beats per se that assist with healing, but rather the act of, and participation in, drumming.

Other than some of the fuddy-duddy rich folk who live above the park or beach who seem to hate natural drumming and call the cops everytime there is a drum circle, almost everyone loves to hear the drums! Many love to play them, especially if it is in a community event like a drum circle.

For more information, stay tuned! I will be adding new information on drumming as time allows. Thanks for reading!