tuned percussion (xylophones, hand chimes, kalimba, boom whacker tubes, etc.)
native american flute (BYOF)
ukulele (BYOU)
voice
body percussion
In addition to instrumental play, students learn about musicality, meter, form, sequencing, arranging, conducting, and improvisation. They also learn how to use:
techniques of empathy
techniques of change
techniques of communication
techniques of support
techniques for elicitation
At most courses, instruments are provided and we encourage students to bring their own.
Movement
Students lean how to help people connect to themselves and each other through a variety of movement-based activities. These include:
moving to music.
creating improvised partner and group dances.
using one's body to cue musical activities (conducting).
learning traditional dances and movement forms.
learning about the principles of movement.
Process Presentation
Students lean how to present activities using the DCM approach. Topics include:
creating an inclusive environment.
helping people feel comfortable in a group setting.
reinforcement (physical, verbal/vocal, visual)
activity presentation, sequencing, variations, etc.
modifying an activity for a specific population, setting, or goal.
group processing/discussion.
assisting in educational, therapeutic, and other goal areas.
In addition, DCM students learn ways to effectively debrief a group and promote insights and development through guided discussions. This is especially helpful when designing and presenting any kind of therapeutic or corporate team building session.
Program Design
Students lean how to design a session/program to meet specific goals and objectives. Topics include:
identifying objectives from goals.
choosing appropriate activities for a specific population.
designing for Health & Wellness outcomes.
designing for Corporate Team Building.
designing for Community Building.
designing for Educative Goals.
designing for Special Needs Populations.
designing a community drum circle.
designing an interactive drumming program.
Our Goals for Students
DCM training is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge to design and present sessions for a variety of populations and applications. Some examples include:
mixed-age community
children
teens/tweens
adults
elderly
education
therapy
training
conflict resolution
wellness
celebrations
team building
spirituality
drum circles (improvised group drumming)
interactive drumming (conducted/guided drumming)
group empowerment music (accessible, social/process oriented)
organic music making (improvised, non-stylized music)
sing-a-longs (song leading)
To learn more about the different ways you can provide a community music making experience for others, see the community music page.
