Drum Circles and compensation

During the course of my endeavors I have been asked or at least have overheard the question or concept that one should not have to “pay” to drum within community. I totally agree that drumming is sacred and understand that some have a problem with the concept of charging for spirituality. This concept is commonly found within the “Red path” of our native tribes. On the other side is the Reiki masters who believe that nothing that has value unless it is compensated with something of value.

So what is it? Something that should be freely offered or something that deserves compensation? I think it falls into both areas of discussion. The vision at Drumming for Peace is “Our mission is to spread the availability of the Drum Circle philosophy and the products that are used for that purpose. “ says what we look to achieve but does not say how we hope to do this.

First I think we have to consider what the drum circle philosophy is. Here are some basic tenets to consider. Within a circle all are equal and are of equal importance. It is not about how good of a drummer you are, its about how well you and your personal rhythm blend in with the others within the circle. Although spiritual concepts can and are overlaid during this musical moment the connectivity of each individual, their connection and benefit of spirit comes from within themselves, not from the others or facilitator. Anyone and any group can find this easily, without “leadership”. Community drumming helps each individual connect to their inner spirit or rhythm and is commonly stronger and more accessible within this structure of community.

So why would it be acceptable to charge for such an event? Well the first reason would be the cost to someone to have the location available, (rent, lights, heat etc.) Then what about the time and energy to invite, set up and ensure a enjoyable event?

But this brings up another question, what if you don't have a drum to use? For example at any given time I might have 5 to 6 thousand dollars tied up in our instrument catalog which we offer for use at these type of events. In the course of use they are sometimes damaged and need retuning and care, so how should that fact be properly addressed?

I also have spent nearly a decade perfecting my craft, as well as attending costly educational seminars to enhance my abilities.

Now I think it would serve this conversation to lay out the difference in drum circle events and at least the way we look at compensation for the work we do.

First there is the local gathering of friends and acquaintances that get together to drum. Most have their own drum and have drummed before. These circle might be held at a home, local park or so on. Perhaps there is no direct cost for the location and extra drum may not be needed. Most likely no “facilitator” is needed to make it happen as the attendees consider themselves drummers and know how to groove with each other. No charge is warranted with this type of event. I would also like to mention that this is my favorite type of circle, the music is superb and the comradeship is uplifting.

Next to consider is the community event where you might have a few drummers and a larger number of first time drummers. Commonly we have been asked or invited to “facilitate” these events not only to provide instruments but to help participants achieve the goal of adding their rhythm to the group song. Often other than the time spent at the actual event many hours of loading and set up and tear down will be logged. Sometimes we get an up front fee but usually it is less than the value of the time spent but at least pays for the gas to get there. We do this to help spread the joy of drumming and get people engaged in this wonderful world we so much believe in. Also in this category would be events at special need communities which commonly have little to spend on programs. We always do these not with concern of proper compensation but with the desire to help and expand the concepts of community.

Every once in awhile we get better paid gigs that serve particular communities and that understand and are willing to pay for our expended energy but these are not as common as one would hope.

Now I would like to further the thought of spirituality and how one may attain personal growth. I believe the drum and drumming is a gateway to growth of ones spirit and spirituality. I don't think you have to tell others that because it just happens naturally. Drumming is natural for all of us and when allowed to participate in a larger community it draws us in and teaches us without even knowing. Of course the lessons are different for each individual and changes as we develop along our path but it is fostered and supported within the community. This is free and cannot be charged for, it occurs within.

So at most of events even the ones that are considered “free” we often will have a donation bucket. It is there to allow others to help in the mission of spreading the joy of drumming. It helps to compensate the other events that are not funded or lightly funded. This helps pay and maintain the instruments and other equipment needed and helps pay for the gas to get there and back. This is a free will offering not required to attend the event.