UPIKE drums up community
0Written by Brian Dunn
Several students and faculty members at UPIKE have formed a drum circle as a community activity. The group has met at “The Rock” outside of Condit Hall twice, and has gotten the attention of many passersby. Many students have taken to the group as well as faculty members, administration and campus safety officers.
“I was approached years ago by some students that wanted to do this,” assistant professor of history, Tyler Ralston, said. “It sounded like a good idea, but we’ve only recently gotten a push to really buckle down and do it. Now that it’s started, we encourage people to get out there and be a part of it.”
Ralston and many of the students who attended the circle describe the group sessions as being a stress reliever. They also have a spiritual feel to them.
The drum circle is scheduled to meet every Thursday at 5 p.m. at the rock. During the colder months, Chrisman Auditorium has been reserved for the meetings. The group extends an open invitation to anyone who would like to come out and sit in with the group. Some drums will be provided, but the group emphasizes that other things, such as buckets or cans can be used to be part of the beat. Full creativity is welcomed and encouraged. Drumming is not the only part of the sessions. Dancing and fire spinning have also been done. There’s no limit as to how many people can join, and more involvement is always welcome. For more information, contact tylerralston@upike.edu or come out to the rock on Thursday evenings.