HE goes by the name of DrumshackJon on the various social media platforms he frequents showing people how to use drumming to release their inner beat.

Johnathan Pimenta has been teaching drumming since the year 2000 when be began giving lessons to tourists.

While his WhatsApp number prior to April 2020 was used occasionally to broadcast events and interesting videos of Djembe and other traditional drumming from around the world, it has picked up the pace with regular drumming instructions which at some times in the past few months of lockdown has provided happiness and hope.

The Highway Mail asked him a few questions recently about his decision to do what he could to keep the drumming community connected during the Covid-19 lockdown.

How helpful is drumming in alleviating stress and anxiety?

Drumming boosts the body’s production of feel good endorphins which alleviates anxiety and helps release pent-up emotions. Drumming gives one permission to make noise – this in itself is a great vehicle for non-verbal expression which releases tension and stress in a musical form.

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What other beneficial effects have been observed from drumming?

Drumming sparks creativity. It is inspirational as it the easiest musical instrument to play, requiring no prior experience. Drumming allows for freedom of expression which brings instant happiness!

How do you generate income from the work you are doing during lockdown to feed yourself and your family?

Offering drum lessons through WhatsApp broadcast – these are offered for a what you can afford rate – drum repair service and sales of hand carved drums via courier service.

Has this virtual classroom approach helped you plan for a new normal future where it is uncertain how much contact people might be able to have for a prolonged period?

Yes, it has made the drumming experience conveniently available in anyone’s home and timetable. This appeals to people who have busy schedules or who prefer learning a new activity in the comfort of familiar surroundings.

Can drumming circles be the ideal activity, even post-lockdown, for people to feel together while still maintaining healthy social distancing?

Drumming connects people through playing repetitive and familiar beats and rhythms.  Drum circles foster community spirit uniting participants through a musical non competitive and cooperative group activity.

A participant can close their eyes, play a complimentary unique individual beat while still being in the group rhythm. Through the connection of sound frequencies participants can still be connected while maintaining healthy social distancing protocols.

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Is drumming becoming more of a mainstream activity rather than being dismissed as just “for hippies” as it was previously by many conservative types?

Definitely – drumming is integrated into many school curricula, is a popular team building activity for many professionals and corporate entities.

Drumming sessions form an invaluable role in health and wellness workshops and occupational therapy.

Drumming is definitely not limited to hippies as it forms an integral role in many cultures around the world from Africa to Asia.

After answering all the questions the Highway Mail gave DrumshackJon a chance to speak about the musical instruments he has grown so fond of.  He waxed lyrical about how accessible and inclusive it is, making it a great starting point for anyone into the world of music.

“Drumming is an easy inroad to becoming a musician. Playing on a non-melodic drum means no technical scales specific key (tuning) is required. There is no age limit or skill set required,” he explained.

“No expensive equipment is required as one can even play on an overturned pot, bucket or even on a tabletop.”

He encouraged anyone interested to join his WhatsApp lesson broadcasts by sending him a message on 083 704 4879.

Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting

Dear reader,
As your local news provider, we have the duty of keeping you factually informed on Covid-19 developments. As you may have noticed, mis- and disinformation (also known as “fake news”) is circulating online. Caxton Local Media is determined to filter through the masses of information doing the rounds and to separate truth from untruth in order to keep you adequately informed. Local newsrooms follow a strict pre-publication fact-checking protocol. A national task team has been established to assist in bringing you credible news reports on Covid-19.
Readers with any comments or queries may contact National Group Editor Irma Green (irma@caxton.co.za) or Legal Adviser Helene Eloff (helene@caxton.co.za).

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