A few weeks ago I had the privilege to attend a drum circle conducted by my friend Alan Yellowitz at Sunrise of Bluemont Park. In all my years of visiting communities I don’t think I have witnessed such a unique activity.
The activity started the moment Alan would start unpacking and setting up his drums. Many of the residents were asking him questions about the drums and he would share information about their design and history.
Once the drum circle started, I moved throughout the community to get different video shots. Everyone I passed in the hallway was either tapping their feet or grooving to the beat. It was great to glance into an office and see someone working behind a desk bobbing their head to the beat.
I am excited that the community is planning to have Alan come back when some local elementary schools students are visiting. I think it will be truly a memorable experience for the children and the elders!
What a great idea! Even in this short clip, I saw engagement that was physical, emotional, and mental, and individual as well as communal. Congratulations to Allan Yellowitz for taking advantage of the opportunity this economy forced on him to march to the beat of a different drum! (Sorry, I couldn’t resist!) Keep up the good work.