X8 Community Drummer: Joel K.

I began my journey with hand drumming in 2007. I walked into Guitar Center and saw a Djembe sitting on the staircase and thought it looked so cool. I bought it without knowing how to play it at all. It sat around for a year and a half while I told myself "I should take lessons." when I would spontaneously try to play it.

I suddenly got inspired (not sure where from) and felt it was time to take lessons. I began taking Djembe lessons and from there the world of hand drumming was opened to me. I would go to the park and get sunburned practicing for hours. I loved every minute of it and eventually got the courage to participate in drum circles. I loved playing and holding down the foundational beat and seeing other drummers play their own rhythms to my beat. And then I learned how to play to their rhythms and it became this beautiful rhythmic dance.

I love to see the positive energy and smiles on people's faces as they're drumming and the glow we have after drumming. The circles are such a fun way to connect with people on a level where words can’t reach. Whenever I attend the drum circles, I leave feeling refreshed, invigorated, positive, and happy. I think the biggest benefit to drumming and jamming at the circles is connecting with others and finding that everyone can play and have fun because we all have rhythm inside.

Drums played: Kengaba Djembe, LP Congas, and an Artisan Edition Mienl Cajon.

We love the positive energy and smiles, too, Joel! Thank you for sharing your story with us!

Drummers, tell us why YOU love drumming and drum circles! We'd love to share your story, too!