Drum Circle Event at Stewart’s Caring Place Brings Community Together
Percussion instruments echoed through Stewart’s Caring Place on Family Fun Night, February 17, as participants gathered in a circle, hands poised and ready. Led by KSU Professor Olu Manns, the session began in familiar fashion with steady rhythms and shared laughter. But this time, a new energy joined the circle.
Kent State’s Asé Xpressions Adds African Dance to the Drum Circle
After warming up the group on the drums, Maseh welcomed a special collaboration with Asé Xpressions, a traditional and modern Afro-beat dance team from Kent State University. Dressed in vibrant purple shirts, the dancers stepped into the circle and began teaching simple choreography rooted in African and Afro-diasporic movement.
Soon, participants were not only drumming — they were dancing.
Smiles spread across the room as rhythm moved from hands to feet. The combination of percussion and guided movement transformed the space into something electric yet deeply communal, and evidence-backed.
The Neuroscience of Rhythm and “Groove”
Research shows that when we hear rhythmic music, our brains naturally link sound and movement, activating motor and reward centers that make us want to move, a pleasurable phenomenon scientists call “groove” (Etani et al.).
That connection was palpable in the room.
Community Music-Making and Cultural Collaboration
Dr. Tiffe, Associate Professor of Ethnomusicology at Kent State University and director of the African Ensemble, helped coordinate Asé Xpressions’ participation in the event. “We were happy to support the community!” she said, underscoring the ensemble’s commitment to education, performance, and community music-making.
Asé Xpressions, whose mission centers on education, cultural awareness, and joyful fellowship through dance, helped participants deepen their experience of rhythm as embodied expression.
What began as a drum circle became a celebration of culture, connection, and healing, and a little reminder that sometimes the best way to chase away winter’s chill is to move together, in rhythm.
Be Part of TDC’s Rhythm & Healing!
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Contact: maseh@trustdrumcircles.org | +1 (614) 216-8026
Trust Drum Circles is a mobile, inclusive arts and wellness organization dedicated to using rhythm to heal, connect, and empower communities. Through adaptive drum circles and music-based programs, TDC fosters growth, joy, and belonging for people of all ages and abilities.
Source:
Etani, Takahide, et al. “A Review of Psychological and Neuroscientific Research on Musical Groove.” Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, vol. 158, 2024, article 105522. Elsevier, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105522.
