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Parkinson's drumming sessions 'help mobility'

BBC Nick Foster is sitting at an electric drum kit. He is wearing a grey jumper and has headphones on.BBC
Participants, like Nick Foster, took part in 12 weeks of lessons to see if it helped with symptoms

People with Parkinson's who have taken part in drum lessons have seen a "tangible difference" in their mobility, according to a drumming school.

A 12-week research project saw those with the disease take part in sessions in Frampton Mansell near Stroud, Gloucestershire.

The initiative is a collaboration between lecturers at Hartpury and Wolverhampton universities and the Cirencester branch of Parkinson's UK and Inspire Drums.

Tutor Phil Jones said: "We're not trying to make amazing drummers but what we're trying to do is test and challenge."

Richard Alcock has had Parkinson's for around 20 years.

"The main problem is mobility and moving around," Mr Alcock said. "I've noticed a slight improvement in mobility."

Richard Alcock is sitting at an electric drum kit. He is wearing a blue jumper. He is sitting opposite another person playing an electric drum kit.
"The main problem is mobility and moving around," said Richard Alcock, pictured

Nick Foster has had Parkinson's for seven years and his wife Jenny said she thought he had improved since taking the drumming lessons.

"I think when he's sitting at the drums, I have noticed his tremor sometimes calms down a bit," she said.

"Certainly he's enjoyed the social aspect of it."

Phil Jones is standing next to a woman holding up a gold medal. Next to them are two participants sitting at electric drum kits.
The participants in the study took part in lessons over 12 weeks, playing on electric drum kits and using headphones

Mr Jones said it's all about "small wins".

"Things like brushing teeth, walking around, less shaking and also speech - all sorts of things that we believe if you play a drum kit... it does stretch the mind a bit," Mr Jones added.

"There's a tangible difference and progression we can demonstrate."

The participants played on electric drum kits using headphones to hear only the voice of the tutor and themselves playing.

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