Edenvale drummer uses music to empower neurodivergent children

Local musician Carvin Rousouw has a passion for music and helping his students grow beyond their boundaries and limitations.

The drummer and music teacher, who grew up in Kroonstad in the Free State, explained that he was exposed to music from a young age.

“Growing up in Kroonstad, there wasn’t much to do; at the time, there were no bowling alleys or anything similar to keep us youngsters busy,” Rousouw said.

ALSO READ: Greenstone drummer sets sights on the US after big victory

“We had to keep ourselves busy, and music was one of the ways of keeping ourselves occupied and out of trouble.”

Rousouw explained that his father was the pastor for a local church where his family grew up, as well as the bassist for the church band.

He said on one occasion the band’s drummer could not make it to a performance. Knowing his son had an interest in music, Rousouw’s father asked him to fill in for the band. Although he was nervous, Rousouw stepped up to the challenge and soon found his rhythm.

After his first appearance in the church band, Rousouw played again and has subsequently played in several other bands.
He said although it was happenstance, it felt like destiny.

ALSO READ: Music fans enjoy melodies by international icon at Emperors

“As a creative, music is my outlet and how I express myself. I am not an illustrator; I love music.”

Explaining how he started teaching music, Rousouw explained that he loves children and has always been involved with them.

He explained that he wanted to teach and share the skills which he had learned with others who had a passion for music.

As time progressed, Rousouw was approached by a parent who had a neurodivergent child.

“Although I was a bit nervous, I decided to take the bull by the horns, and it was so rewarding,” Rousouw said.

“The child was four years old and had a limited attention span, but seeing them progress, their focus and attention grew, and they grew very close to my heart.”

ALSO READ: Thembalami residents enjoy music, dancing at Women’s Day lunch

Rousouw said when he teaches neurodivergent students, he ensures that the children are comfortable and at ease. “I try to get into their world while creating a tailored curriculum for them,” he said.

He explained that some of the benefits of drumming that he has identified for neurodivergent children include an improvement in motor skills, an improvement in mobility and an improvement in hand-eye coordination.

“For many of my students, their social skills also improve; they gain more confidence and believe in themselves.”

For Rousouw, one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching the drums to his students is seeing them succeed.

“Their growth and the development of their confidence and being able to play with other musicians is the ultimate payday for me.”

Rousouw, who teaches drums in Edenvale, invited community members to contact him. He said that, as he has a portable drum kit, students do not need their own equipment.