Paralounge Drum Gathering

Home Page What is a Drum Gathering? Paralounge Drum Gathering Admission Info May 7-9, 2010 Schedule Rhythmical Alchemy Playshop Directions Contact Vendor Information Paralounge pictures Video Gallery Sponsorship page Drum Circle Resources

What is the Paralounge Drum Gathering?

Thank you for your interest in the Paralounge Drum Gathering. The Paralounge Drum Gathering is a celebration of human spirit with drum and dance. It is labeled a "Gathering" becouse the atmosphere provides a community experience through music and dance in a traditional sense. You will see live performances, but this is not a concert. Everyone has gathered for the purpose of engaging in creative musical expression using indigenous instruments our ancestors created.

A unique experience for the entire family!

It may be a "Drum" gathering, but there is a lot more going on. You do not have to know anything about drums. The drums are merely an instrument used to release creativity and explore musicality through an experience of self empowerment. The Drum Gathering experience is made to allow children to interact with adults and build community structure through rhythm and dance. No prior experience necessary!

Should I bring the kids?

The Paralounge Drum Gathering is for the entire family. The schedule provides childrens activities and child with adult activities. Children are encouraged to enjoy the atmosphere and interact. Be sure to look over the schedule of the upcoming Drum Gathering. There will always be something for the children.

What are the workshops about?

The workshops provide many apsects of information.

Where the instrument was made
When the instrument was invented
What culture created the instrument
What was the instruments original purpose
How do you play the instrument traditionally
How has the instrument adapted to modern music

This information provides Geographic, Historical and Cultural understanding through musical application and community interaction.

What kind of instruments will I see?

You will experience a plethora of indigenous instruments from all over the planet. You could experience the African Djembe, the Japanese Taiko drums, the Australian Didgeridoo, Native American drums, Congo drums, Ashiko drums, The Tablas, Doumbek, and the list goes on....

The Paralounge presents all forms of rhythmical expression. Crystal Bowls and flutes, chimes, gongs and rattles are all ways to explore the realm of rhythm and dance. We refer to "indigenous" instruments. Meaning: an instrument that does not require electronic assistance and is made up of natural materials such as wood, metal or glass.

Many instruments are used to achieve musical unity. Many different instruments are used to keep rhythm. Of course, there are drums from around the world; there are wooden percussion instruments, flutes, whistles, Australian didgeridoos, rattles, shakers, and all kinds of other primitive percussion instruments. In the rhythm of the drum circle, spontaneous changes are natural and unique to the moment, affected only by the emotions of the groups and the unity achieved.

What's it all about?

The Paralounge drum circle is not just about playing drums. It is about understanding primitive instruments and the cultures that created them. These instruments require no power outside that of your own intent to create music. They were created to mimic the sounds of nature. Some of the instruments were used for communication between tribes over long distances. They were used to celebrate harvest or prepare for war. They were used by the ancient shaman to heal the sick and cast away spirits. By understanding these instruments we begin to understand our heritage, and develop a better concept of our ancestors.