‘We created this circle for connection and community’: Cobourg drum circle
By reporter Natalie Hamilton
Sharon Stevens and Sheila Noonan are feeling “Good Vibrations” about the drumming circle they have formed in Cobourg and are welcoming others to also experience the benefits of playing percussion.
The Good Vibrations Drum Circle started after the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted the djembe drum lessons they were attending in Bowmanville at the time. When the lessons started up again, Stevens and Noonan weren’t enthusiastic about making the drive to Durham Region. However, they missed drumming.
“So we thought how great it would be to have our own drum circle right here in Cobourg,” Stevens and Noonan shared in a joint statement.
“And so, in the interest of creating something for connection and community, we began to plan how we might do that. Eventually, as our plan evolved, we found a perfect space to rent at Trinity United Church, and in January of 2023, we were delighted to gather several drummers from Cobourg, Port Hope and Grafton.”
Some people travelled from further away to join them, but Northumberland’s winter weather was a deterrent.
“At this point, our numbers have increased and we have a core group who come to our weekly gatherings and others who come when they can. We have had many come in just to see what we’re all about – we welcome and encourage that. “Drop in, see and hear what we do, experience what we’re all about, feel the connection among those who have been with us awhile.”
Members of the Good Vibrations circle play djembes or frame drums, bongos, and several kinds of other percussion instruments. They have a few djembes and frame drums to share with people who want to try them out before they buy or rent their own.
“African rhythms for Djembe are quite complex and while we have learned a few of those rhythms, we tend to depend more on intuitive drumming,” said Stevens. “One person starts a rhythm; others join in and create a wonderful sound.”
Along with the music to one’s ears, vibration caused by drumming is a healthy activity.
“Vibration caused by drumming has a positive effect on the whole person,” she said.
There are specific positive effects of vibration on the vagal system, affecting several of the body’s organs, including the heart.
“Drumming causes us to learn to listen.”
The drummer learns to focus and avoid distraction. Drumming provides time and space for creative expression, promotes connection with like-minded people and builds community, said Stevens.
“Our drummers often say they often feel better at the end of a session than they did when they came in. When, in our early days, we asked for suggestions for a name, the group chose Good Vibrations. “It has defined us well.”
The Good Vibrations Drum Circle hopes to welcome new members.
“A newcomer (will) be welcomed by a supportive group whose experience with drumming varies. Some have been drumming for many years. Others are fairly new. We are careful to make sure everyone can be involved, learn as they go, and mostly enjoy themselves,” noted Stevens.
The circle meets at 7 p.m. on Thursdays at Trinity United Church, which is located at 284 Division St.
Call 343-263-4686 for more information.
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