Connection through a drum circle in nature

The djembe, one of West Africa’s best-known instruments, has become popular across the world and Cyprus doesn’t fall far behind. At many of the corners of the island, from cities to villages and festivals, you will find djembe workshops teaching people the meditative melody of this drum. Playing the djembe requires a sense of rhythm but most importantly of feeling the music. It can be incredibly relaxing to feel the drum’s vibrations move from your fingers to the rest of the body and at the same time it’s an energetic activity, one that has captivated musicians and amateurs alike.

On the island, there are a few teachers holding frequent djembe classes. One of them is Philippos Stamatopoulos teaching weekly in Nicosia and Limassol and this Sunday he is inviting djembe lovers and anyone interested to join him for a drum circle in nature. A drum circle is exactly what it says – players sit in a circle with their djembes and drum together, usually led by a teacher – this time Philippos. Hosted at the outdoor space of Nature and Spirit in Moniatis, the event will begin at 4pm. The drum circle will take place from 4.30pm until 5.30pm, followed by a 30-minutes mindfulness meditation before the gathering wraps up at 6pm.

The circle is open to all and the beauty of djembe playing is that it doesn’t need much prior experience. Simply the ability to feel the music and follow the rhythm is enough to get you into the flow. Those attending should bring their own drum or percussion but if you don’t have one there will be some djembes or other percussion instruments available. Simply click ‘attending’ on the Facebook event (Drum Circle-Celebrating Nowness) and contact Philippos to make arrangements.

Drum Circle – Celebrating Nowness

Djembe drum circle and meditation. Led by Philippos Stamatopoulos. August 29. Nature and Spirit, Moniatis village. 4pm-6pm