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Drumming workshops aim to improve wellbeing

Rooful Ali A group of participants sat in a circle playing djembe drumsRooful Ali
The sessions are put on once a week at the Daylight Centre in Wellingborough

A series of West African drumming sessions are improving the mental wellbeing of their participants.

The workshops happen every Thursday at The Daylight Centre in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire.

Janice Essam, one of the instructors from the United African Association, said the benefits of playing the drums are "endless" and can help "anxiety, depression, and social resilience".

The sessions primarily involve playing the djembe drum - a large goblet originating from West Africa, covered in goat skin and played with bare hands.

Drumming instructor holding a red djembe drum
Instructor Janice Essam says playing the drums can improve mental health

The classes start off with clapping exercises on the djembe drum, before moving on to more complicated rhythm patterns.

Other instruments on offer include a balafon - a type of xylophone - and a bass drum.

One of the participants, Paul Groom, said learning a new instrument was "incredible" and the sessions "make [him] feel good."

Mr Groom added: "I just love the sound of [the music]. It makes me feel good and more confident."

Fellow group member James Lambe said the best part of the class was "getting together with others" and "enjoying each other's company".

'Good for community'

Ms Essam said the workshops were "good for community" as playing music "transcends age, gender, and culture".

Ms Essam added: "In a few moments, you're all speaking the same language through rhythm.

"[The participants] have taken to it really well and seem to be really enjoying it."

The drumming workshops continue weekly at the Wellingborough Daylight Centre until 20 June.

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