Only the Drum Circle Leader Can Promote You

Why This Matters

Many times the drum circle has the same or similar group of folks as previous circles. The leader likely has preferences of who sits close or far away.

In very large drum circles, it might mean that drummers who can follow the leader visually are spread out, so that the drummers by the ends have a close drummer to follow.

How You Achieve Success

Ask. As simple as it sounds, choosing to just place yourself next to the drum circle leader might be disallowed.

What You Do

1. If it's not your drum circle, ask about position.
2. Groups of drummers who have played together frequently likely need to be near each other. It's the leader who chooses who sits close to them.
3. Choosing yourself to sit close to the lead drummer is likely going to be perceived as promoting yourself.

More In-Depth

As an outsider, do not presume it is okay to choose where you sit. For example, telling the drum circle leader, "I'm going to sit next to you".

Choosing to sit next to the lead drummer puts the drum circle leader in the uncomfortable position of needing to correct you and move you.

Reasons for the Core Group

The group of musicians and drummers sitting at the core of the drum circle frequently collaborate with each other during the performance. In smaller venues it might be by low volume speaking; in larger more rambunctious venues it likely requires more volume. The group coordinates things like

• What the next rhythm, or group of rhythms, might be;
• Dynamics of the drum circle and dance floor, and what might need to be handled;
• Change of drum leadership, for things like breaks for one or multiple drummers while keeping the circle going;
• And more.