"A shared energy": West African drumming fosters cross-cultural understandings in Australia. Issue 1 (2nd January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Joseph, Dawn
• Is Part Of: World leisure journal. Volume 64:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 79
• Page End: 98
• Publication Date: 2022-01-02
• Subjects: African music -- cultural connections -- drumming -- leisure -- multiculturalism -- social connections; Leisure -- Periodicals; Recreation -- Periodicals; 306.4805
• DOI: 10.1080/16078055.2021.1915862
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1607-8055

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study builds on and contributes to work in the area of African music in Australia in community settings. This research explores why people came together to share music-making and practice at a drumming retreat, and what they experienced as a recreational group music activity. Employing thematic analysis to code the data, two overarching themes (drumming for leisure and cultural connections) are discussed. I argue that West African drumming as a "shared energy" experience has the power to positively impact participants' lives, fostering cross-cultural understandings. Exploring another culture helps to dispel myths and encourages discussion that may promote cultural diversity and respect in a multicultural Australia.