On the evening of June 20, a drum circle music therapy workshop was held on the lawn of the University Student Activity Center. It was a fascinating journey of rhythm and self-discovery. Over thirty students gathered to embark on this rhythmic dialogue, using music as a medium. Through interactive drumming and instrument exploration, they found a space to relax, express themselves, and weave a healing symphony of summer through drumbeats, chimes, and laughter.
Professional Facilitators
This special event featured two distinguished music therapy experts:
Professor Zhang Nu
Associate Professor at the Music School of Minzu University of China
Master’s Supervisor
Member of the Chinese Musicians Association
Certified VMC Global Drum Circle Facilitator (the only one in mainland China)
Guest Facilitator for the “5.25 Mental Health Festival”
President of the Drum Circle Facilitators’ Confederation (DCFC)
Professor Wang Bing
Associate Professor at the Music School of Minzu University of China
Master’s Supervisor
Ph.D. in Music Therapy, Temple University, USA
Certified AMI Guided Imagery and Music Therapist
Deputy Director of the Music Therapists Professional Committee
Certified VMC Drum Circle Mentor and Music Therapist
At the beginning of the event, Professors Zhang Nu and Wang Bing led participants into the world of rhythm in a fun and engaging way. There were no complex theories or rigid teaching methods—only the joy of free, improvised expression. As the first beats echoed, even the students’ tentative rhythms revealed their eager curiosity and readiness to explore.
As the session progressed, instruments such as African drums, shakers, and handbells gradually “came alive” in the students’ hands. Some used rapid drumbeats to release pressure; others expressed serenity through gentle chimes. Initially shy rhythms gradually interwove into a harmonious symphony—showcasing the power of collective creativity and the unspoken understanding among participants. These seemingly simple instruments became emotional outlets, with each strike telling its own story from the depths of the heart.
As the event neared its close, Mr. Ma Yujun, Secretary of the Youth League Committee of the School of Art and Design, spoke to the students about the event’s purpose:
“Our goal was to create a relaxing and joyful atmosphere through the unique interactive form of a drum circle, helping students release stress and express their emotions. No musical background is needed—just the willingness to try, and everyone can find their own place and resonance here.”
Bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, this special music therapy session concluded on a high note. Through rhythmic interaction and instrumental experience, the students not only learned the basics of musical expression but also felt the unique emotional power that music can bring. As the sounds of various instruments blended into harmony, a natural resonance emerged among participants—this is the true charm of music therapy.
Though the event has ended, the feelings it inspired continue to resonate. We believe that every rhythmic beat is a ray of light shining into the soul; every musical resonance is a remedy for life’s challenges.
Looking ahead, we will continue to explore the possibilities of art therapy, and we look forward to meeting you again in the next melody. Let us carry this inspiration forward, and preserve a quiet harbor for the soul amid the busyness of daily life.
Translated by: Zhu Ruiqi
