The use of Djembe Drums for Music Therapy

Hand-crafted African djembe drums are stunning instruments with an appealing sound. Not only that, these drums are useful for therapy and recovery. Rhythm is an important part of the human experience, beginning with the sound of the mum’s heart beat whilst still in the womb. Drum therapy develops that experience to further stimulate healing.

 

Music therapy with djembe drums can be utilized in various institutional surroundings. In particular, school kids spanning various ages enjoy a session of playing rhythm musical instruments. However the gain goes over and above simple enjoyment. Producing music has been found to be beneficial to a child’s mental development as well as reducing anxiety levels, both facts which make drumming valuable as a therapy for children with problems like ADHD, mental retardation, or actual physical difficulties.

 

The djembe drum dates back about seven hundred years, where it was first created in the African country of Mali. The craftsman carves the drum from a single length of tree trunk and tops it with an animal skin drum head. The drum is designed to fit between the legs of the player and be drummed using bare hands. Musicians may learn traditional rhythms or play depending on the way they feel.

 

Drum circles can be used various kinds of therapy. When applied to a group, the feeling of community helps the music in generating well being. Drum circles have been seen to be helpful for stroke sufferers, cancer sufferers, individuals trying to break addictions, and other men and women old and young who are dealing with difficulties. Drums are utilized with Alzheimer’s patients and it’s thought that drumming can also help the immune system.

 

In a drum circle, the head djembe drummer will usually put together the rhythm for the circle, with other instruments following his lead. Other instruments used include rattles, shakers, bongo drums, rhythm sticks, and tambourines. Schools often purchase the instruments in classroom kits in order that there will be something for everyone to play.

 

When picking a djembe drum, you will have to consider the size of the person who’ll be playing it. Heights of the drums range from 12 to 28 inches with the diameter of the head increasing proportionately. The drum should rest on the floor or chair when the player is sitting down. The head of the drum should be located 3 or 4 inches above the lap. Thus, the smallest children ought to be equipped with the smallest size of djembe drums.