This session puts frame drum technique into practice.  Participants will work in a circle, embracing both Tammorriata 4/4  and Tarantella 6/8 rhythms.  This method will focus on giving them a useful tool for their practices.  The use of tambourines and frame drums, along with movement, has an effect of healing of stress and anxiety. Description: The women’s tradition of drumming in Southern Italy and the Mediterranean in general has been passed down through the ages since ancient times.  This is a session that puts students in touch with the roots of civilization in a meaningful, hands-on fashion.  Ritual drumming induces communication with the essential core and is of benefit to those in the healing professions.  This study will enable students to learn to empower both themselves and others. The session begins with an introduction to the music of Southern Italy, with a brief overview of percussion in the Mediterranean and its ancient roots.  This style of percussion will be identified from its Greek roots through the Italian Ages and Renaissance and its relevance today.  In the Middle Ages, it was an essential tool for removing fear of death from plague, and, beginning in the Renaissance, was used to rid women of the mortal effects of the “bite of the spider.”  The illness imposed by the tarantula’s bite was a metaphor for depression,  hysteria—shaking, severe anxiety, and a general inability to conduct one’s life.  Freud formally defined and treated “hysteria” as a specific women’s condition, but it has been treated in Italy with percussion and dance for many centuries.  We will study and practice basic techniques:  holding the drum with emphasis on arm movement, hand technique and the 4/4 and 6/8 rhythms; included will be the variations of hand techniques from different regions of Southern Italy.  The session will be appropriate for beginning through intermediate drummers, who will become familiarized with not only Italian approaches, but to the entire Pan-Mediterranean rhythmic milieu.  There will be a final ensemble performance, described by participants as “thrilling,” as the drums accompany vocalizations of traditional Italian songs. Learning Objectives: Students who complete this session will:

Be introduced to the rich rhythms of the commanding tambourInE style of Southern Italy & Learn powerful Italian technique of the Tammorriata and Tarantella, ancient forms of music & dance therapy and how apply it today Practice working as an ensemble Become personally empowered by performing the rhythms and therefore able to reach out to empower others in their practices