Remarkable things happen when people make music together. Just ask Christine Stevens.
From corporate boardrooms to New Orleans disaster recovery volunteers, the work of this inspired teacher and music therapist continues to demonstrate the healing power of community drum circles.
Stevens, author of The Healing Drum Kit, has just returned from northern Iraq, 
where she led 38 people from seven different ordinances in a five-day drum circle leadership program. Hosted by Kurdistan Save the Children, this program marks the first time an international relief organization has used music making for conflict resolution, economic development, youth empowerment, therapy, and peace-making.
Proclaimed a success by organizers, the event inspired the creation of continuing Iraqi drum circles, including:
- Seven youth activity centers in northern Iraq will begin weekly drum circles for over 300 children.
- A children’s rehabilitation center will offer weekly drum circles for staff and for patients and families.
- A cultural center will begin drum circles.
- An orphanage will begin drum circles for thousands of children who’ve lost their parents in the war.
- A performance ensemble of drummers will offer drum circles in their community and integrate drum circles into their performances.
- A university will offer drum circles for students.
Read the complete story on Christine Stevens’ website
