By ALEX CAMBOURIS
On Thursday, September 19, the Nature at the Confluence Center In South Beloit hosted their final drum circle of 2024. This event runs every third Thursday of the month from May to September, and begins at 6:30 p.m. The festivities include a bonfire, smores, arts and crafts, and, of course, drumming. I and the many other participants all sat together in a big circle surrounding a myriad of different percussion instruments. I chose a basic heavy drum, but visitors are encouraged to practice with the shakers as well as the xylophone. David Stocker, leader of the circle led with a rhythmic tone as we followed in harmony. My mind seemed to separate from my arms; they carried the beat while I absorbed the trees and the sky. Indeed, it was a profound experience. “I love seeing people come together and figure out how to play music together,” says Rachel Terminello, an attendant at NatC. The festivities begin again in May 2025, so make sure to stop by.
Featured Image Credit: Ezekiel Kingsbury’25
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