Made Djembe
Seniors Making Beautiful Music
The benefits of seniors making music are becoming more and more well-known by the year. Participation in musical groups has resulted in emotional and physical benefits for the elderly.
The Music Making and Wellness Project was a study on the affects of musical participation on healthy American seniors. The project's findings were positive, proving that stress, depression and loneliness diminished greatly for those taking music lessons, while the life outlook of the control group didn't change. Strangely enough, the musicians in the group had a 90% increase in the production of human growth hormone, which typically declines in the elderly.
As Ted Turner stated, "Music has a great power for bringing people together. With so many forces in this world acting to drive wedges between people, it's important to preserve those things that help us experience our common humanity." The most effective groups are encouraging, focusing more on social interaction than on musical skill.
You could join a drum circle or a class, as long as there is a focus on involvement and a musical environment. Since every beginner is uncomfortable playing for the first time, seniors would have no problem making friends. Finding a group led by a mentor rather than an instructor will reduce the stress a novice may feel.
Senior music groups aren't about top class performance, they're about creating a sense of community. In the movie The Visitor, a 60-odd year-old widower discovers the djembe, as a result of his friendship with two illegal immigrants who have taken up residence in his abandoned apartment.
The bonds of age or skill don't matter; Walter (Richard Jenkins, who was nominated for an Oscar for Best Actor in a Leading Role for the movie) finds passion and joy in playing his djembe, both in group circles and by himself. Walter discovered a new culture and a new skill, connecting him to his old life with his classical piano-playing late wife, while at the same time gaining new interests and becoming a more diversified person.
The djembe is only one example of a instrument that a senior may take an interest in. Though some may resort to instruments played in their younger days, many take up music based on a love for the sound – like a trumpet, glockenspiel or even the didgeridoo. So long as you find a supportive group that your instrument fits in, you should be fine.
The most important thing in a senior music group is that the members enjoy creating simple melodies, no matter the instrument. Whether joining a huge drum circle or a small brass band, the same ideas apply. Music helps to create a sense of community, while providing a stimulating, intellectual challenge.
Seniors will be reminded of the importance of working in a group, and will be involved in musical events in the future, making sure that they feel like a part of something. The skills one gains in a band are the skills needed to create any thriving community. At the same time, studies show that musicians, no matter what age, suffer less from depression and have increased strength in the immune system.
About the Author
X8 Drums is your destination for all things djembe, cajon drum, didgeridoo and more. Hand drummers at any level can get personal assistance finding the right gear plus tons of free instructional material.
MIchael P solo djembe @China Camp on Toca Stage Series Pro Wood Djembe
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