Russell Buddy Helm

There is a wide spectrum of conditions that are referred to as autistic. Our drumming clinics at Tobin World have shown a wide variety of responses. The language of the drum is our first language. Rhythm. Without judging, without aggression, without fear, the kids and adults can feel included in the conversation of life. They discover that they are in a group by feeling the steady downbeat. They contribute by supporting that anchor note. They smile and focus on us. The tempo needs to be forgiving; around forty beats a minute. The first note is the downbeat, in the middle of the djembe head, which should be tuned loose enough for the deep tone to be felt. It is the heartbeat of the group and the cornerstone of a coherent groove. It is essential to use the downbeat approach otherwise there is chaos. We are introducing order into the their distracted minds, without discipline, and without shame. They bloom, performing together in the group, and become cognizant of their place in the world. They respond to facial expressions of others.

When the low downbeat reverberates through the autistic group like a heartbeat, there is joy as well as communication.

excerpt” “History of the Groove” Russell Buddy Helm ©2015 buddyhelm.com

We have been starved of our rhythmic nutrition for a long time. Some may say it’s been missing from our cultural diet since the advent of the drum machine. But other’s offer the history of the Dark Ages when anyone not adhering to church doctrine was eliminated, especially drummers. So we have been shamed and intimidated into not trusting our need for organic rhythm. It balances brain hemisphere activity, inner ear balance, blood sugar, blood pressure, endocrine and lymphatic systems are exercised. The heart feels safe when the groove is right. We need it for our health and wellbeing. So it’s no wonder that people are seeking out drumming groups. But the thing to watch out for is dysfunctional drumming. If it feels uncomfortable then it is probably the problem of the facilitator; don’t assume it is your failure. it should be inviting, not aggressive or elitist. Start your own.

excerpt: “History of the Groove” Russell Buddy Helm ©2015 buddy helm.com

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