Rhythm Gym: A project of Community Partners a 501(c)3 non-profit.: Press

'Drum-A-Thon' ...And the Beat Goes On
Music Event: Drumathon! Los Angeles

Boom, ba-boom. The pattern starts simply, but soon, others join in. Boom, ba-boom-boom, tap. Like a snowball rolling down a mountain, the noise builds and builds, eventually becoming an impenetrable cacophony of sound. Each participant contributes just as much as anyone else and each has a rhythm that is echoed by everyone else. Everyone is connected, yet independent. Such is the nature of a drum circle.

And such is the nature of the work of Rhythm Gym, a non-profit organization dedicated to spreading programs that encourage music and fitness. Their latest event, Drumathon! Los Angeles, was an eight-hour continuous drum circle held at the Goodwill Southern California Auditorium.

The event featured a whole host of different percussion instruments: congas, bongos, djembes, tambourines -- that's just for starters. People of all walks of life were able to jump in and start drumming, regardless of age or level of experience. Once in the drum circle, everyone was free to choose any instrument and go at it without restraint.

Kalani, director of programs and training for Rhythm Gym and facilitator of the drum circle, says that the spirit of the drum circle is to encourage not only musicality, but social interaction and aerobic exercise. (READ THE FULL ARTICLE AND SEE PHOTOS BY CLICKING THE LINK BELOW)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Janet Marinaccio, Executive Director
Tel. 818-501-0840
Fax: 818-728-1751
Email: janet@rhythmgym.org

COMMUNITY SPIRIT COMES TO LIFE WITH DRUMATHON! LOS ANGELES: A FUNdraiser for Rhythm Gym, an Innovative New Non-Profit

Los Angeles, CA – January 24, 2006. Celebrating the diversity of Los Angeles, Rhythm Gym, a non-profit project of Community Partners is presenting Drumathon! Los Angeles on March 25, 2006 from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm at Goodwill Southern California, 342 San Fernando Road, Los Angeles, CA 90031. Proceeds will be used to bring Rhythm Gym programs to children and families in underserved communities throughout Los Angeles County in 2006.

Similar to a walkathon, participants will play hand drums and various percussion instruments for 8 continuous hours and are asked to raise money through sponsorships. The event will feature drum circle activities, fundraising prizes, refreshments and special guests. Participants should register early. All registration and sponsorship information can be found at drumathon.com.

Rhythm Gym Founder and Director of Programs & Training, Kalani says, “Last year’s event was a big success and I am excited to see the interest and enthusiasm grow as we bring the event to Goodwill this year to help Rhythm Gym programs touch the lives of so many in our community. Music is a gift we can give each other. We’re pleased to offer the opportunity for the people of Southern California, who believe in the benefits of music making, to come together as a community in celebration and support of these programs.” Along with a talented team of drummers, teachers and performers, Kalani will help participants have stress-free fun. No prior musical experience is required to participate. Every hour of drumming will be finished with a special 10-minute performance or drum lesson. Use of all instruments will be provided free of charge and every participant will receive a free gift.

Rhythm Gym is committed to enriching the lives of people in underserved communities of Southern California by providing music- and movement-based activities that emphasize community, creativity and healthy living.

Kalani is an award-winning author, music educator, percussionist and recording artist. He travels extensively throughout the US as a keynote speaker and presenter at conferences, universities and schools. For a full bio see kalanimusic.com.

To register for Drumathon! Los Angeles go to drumathon.com. For information on Rhythm Gym programs visit rhythmgym.org. To schedule interviews, live drum jams or appearances with Kalani, please call 818-271-1054.