by j.d.
(lagrange,id usa)
i have a disorder called central auditory processing deficit.
i am trying to learn african drumming.
as i think it applies to me, i am hindered in comprehending the patterns unless i can translate the rhythm into visual symbols.. .when i hear something spoken, or a pattern played my vision shuts down. Audio messages mix up my visual messages.
Being in a drum circle that is fairly advanced i am challenged by the phonemes that are called out to introduce a new rhythm . If i can't see the visual pattern on the drumhead i can't recall it when i get home. the setting would not allow filming the lessons. i've been told that i have a good measure of body awareness. Yoga and muscle isolation for instance. can you tell me how to make the necessary movies in my head?
Maybe drumming therapy...maybe mindfulness technique. this is an accomplishment which i have on my "bucket list". i have been hacking away at this since 2007. i have seen some improvement. Luckily there is no charge to attend this class/ circle. do you think you can give me any pointers?
Ben's Answer:
This is a very interesting question. Though it may be beneficial to struggle with the discipline of a formal class, I think you would also benefit from a less structured/formal drum class. In a more free form, improvisational drum circle, in which the goal is therapeutic, mindful, with an awareness of the
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