John Powers facilitating drum circles for kids and adults West Milford Drumming is an ancient musical tradition that many cultures around the world use to energize, build unity, focus attention, relax and heighten creativity. No matter what our age and ability, whenever we hear drumming, we all begin to move to those universal rhythms inside us. A community drum circle is a group of people who come together to make in-the-moment music. No musical experience is necessary. With a few rhythm starters, the circle begins to experience the fun, excitement and humor that collaboration brings. John Powers, co-owner of Andrea Powers Studio, will be facilitating community drum circle sessions at the Andrea Powers Studio. Powers has been playing drums and percussion for over 30 years. Born and raised in Bergen County, at the age of 10, Powers experimented with an old broken snare drum and cymbal his cousin had given him as an adolescent. Always listening to American music as a youngster he went to Ireland at the age of 12 and was heavily influenced by punk rock and new wave from the United Kingdom and built a great interest in this genre. He began to develop his talent as a self-taught drummer playing in the 1980s and has played in several pop, rock, blues, rockabilly and punk rock bands in the New York/New Jersey/Pennsylvania area and continues to play in bands of the same style. Drum circles use drumming and other instruments, including vocal, as a tool for healing and allows participants to use rhythm as a form of release and a way to connect with others. Drum circles can be very healing for all who attend. Research shows that music can be helpful in chronic pain management, stress relief, mood improvement, and possibly even with brain stimulation and memory. The purpose of a drum circle is to give participants of all ages and abilities to experience their own rhythmic spirit and power. Powers has put his focus on drum instruction and has been actively teaching drumming techniques, rhythmic patterns and concepts for drummers of all levels. He has taken an interest in drum circles, Native American drums and Native American flute. Powers will be facilitating these powerful rhythmic drum circles at Andrea Powers Studio to everyone regardless of age or ability. Bring a loved one or a friend and experience a fun, enthusiastic and enlightening class with lots of positive energy. There are two sessions, one for adults and one for children 8 and over. Both are eight-week sessions. The kids’ session begins Wednesday, Oct. 6 at 3:30 p.m. Adults are on Sundays at 2 p.m. starting Oct. 10. The cost for the eight-week session is $64 and includes refreshments and a healthy treat. Or drop in for $10. Andrea Powers Studio is located at 179 Cahill Cross Road in West Milford. For more information call 973-728-1486 or go to www.andreapowers.com.