Barbara Kuper, RN, 1st time drummer, Louisiana State University

We would probably all agree that the devastation suffered by New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina rivals the inner depression experienced by her many loyal residents as they now work hard to rebuild what they lost.  How do you rebuild the human spirit?  How do you bring people together to support one another in the challenges of surviving such massive loss?

Music.

Based on studies showing that Recreational Music Making improves biological, psychological, and sociological well-being, music therapist Christine Stevens spent one week drumming up hope, healing, and wellness in New Orleans.   Stevens and colleague Constantine Alatsas offered drum circles and HealthRHYTHMS™ programs to over 700 New Orleans residents in just one week.  Their three-part technique was simple and offered immediate positive outcomes.  First - invite individuals to request a favorite song.  Popular song choices included Amazing Grace, My Girl, Like A Rolling Stone, and On The Bayou.  Second –invite him/her to sing and drum along with the song.  (Christine supported the music using her StrumStick™, a travel guitar).  Third – inspire others to join in on drums or singing.  According to Stevens, “the result was magnificent.  From students at the University to staff at Medical Hospitals; from FEMA trailer parks to Red Cross tents, everyone needed the hope, happiness and bonding music making has to offer.”

In the FEMA trailer park in St. Bernard Parish, one man named Charles immediately snatched up a djembe and played while calling to his buddies, “hey man – this is good for your anger.  Don’t you guys get it?”

Perhaps we’ve forgotten when our ancestors intuitively knew; the power of music making.  At a time when families face the challenges of no playground space, after-school activities or lights in their neighborhood at night, recreational music making can inspire, invigorate and bring people together like no other tool.  New Orleans can benefit from a taste of her own medicine...drumming, singing, and coming together may be just what The Doctor ordered.  In the words of Henry Miller, “In the end I think of music as saving grace for all humanity.”

This event was sponsored by Remo HealthRHYTHMS™, UpBeat Drum Circles, and The Institute for Creative Enhancement.