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Since knee-high, we're taught that marching to the beat of our own drum is a good thing. But in the corporate world, it's essential those individual rhythms also be in sync with a company's goals, values and talents of fellow workers. Little surprise then, that business is hot on the discovery trail of drum circles as the latest interactive teambuilding tool, using the metaphor of music as a way to bring individuals together as harmonious workplace players. The Drum Café, Soul Drums, and Boom! The Power of Rhythm, are just a few of the skilled facilitators handing out drums in rooms filled with employees and executives, and leading them in a high-energy, interactive exploration of how creativity and leadership finds group unity in the groove of every beat. The team that thumps together, stays together.
The process is fascinating to watch, exhilarating to participate in. Sure, making music with a funky African tribal drum, or exotic hand percussion instrument is fun (and, wow, the stress release!), but listen intently as a series of exercises coaxes the wild individual staccatos at the start of a session into one stirring rhythmic heartbeat that still manages to underscore the importance of each person's/team's contribution. Based on the philosophies of ancient drum cultures around the world, circle drumming is an outside-of-the-box method of breaking down barriers (watch how quickly a room full of strangers comes together), and delivering a communal sense of accomplishment. Along the way, participants can't help but tune in to anticipating and dealing with change and the role different “voices” and collaboration play in fostering team spirit and communication. For a totally different music-based experience, treat the group to a performance of the Blue Man Group at the Panasonic Theatre on Yonge Street, where the infamous bald, cobalt-coloured threesome drum and deadpan their way through a wacky multi-media production that imparts an entertaining statement on the chaos and isolation technology and marketing wreak on society today. Part slapstick, part pure artistic genius, the tribal drumming, visual effects and audience interaction draw you in on so many different levels; the slick, impeccable timing and energy of cast and band a model demonstration of teamwork in itself. Let the beat go on...
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