What is the role of a leader or facilitator in a drum circle?
This depends upon the style of the leader/facilitator and the needs and goals of the group. Facilitate means to “make easier”, so I approach my job as making it as easy as possible for the group to play together, meet their goals and have fun. In some groups, such as community festivals, I do a short introduction to the concept of drumming together and how it relates to building strong, effective communities. I then demonstrate some easy, fundamental playing techniques and patterns, get the group playing and then just let them play. I encourage the more experienced players to create parts that support the groove and remind them that experienced players already know the importance of grooving and not just playing flashy chops! I will play along unobtrusively from the circle and move around to give low-key help to individuals or to the group only when necessary. It’s up to the leader to know how, what and when to facilitate and when NOT to facilitate. There is always the temptation to ov
