Paula Hetherington
10 December, 2024
Schools

The universal language of the drums

More than 30 ESOL students at City of Portsmouth College enjoyed a free two-hour drumming session at the college’s Arundel Campus as part of Mental Health Awareness Week.

ESOL students enjoying the drumming session at City of Portsmouth College.

The session was led by Portsmouth-based organisation DrumNation Tribe, following a hugely successful similar event staged last year.

“It was so well received we had to keep getting more chairs!” said Murray Jacobs, Student Support and Wellbeing Advisor.

“It was fun!” said Shyan, from Kurdistan, Iraq.

Shwe from Myanmar said: “It was amazing ! I haven't done this before.”

Eman from Sudan said: “This reminded me of my country.”  

And Sidra from Pakistan, said: “I loved it, it was amazing.”  

DrumNation Tribe are a group of musicians, drummers and percussionists, mainly influenced by West African rhythms. They meet every Tuesday in Buckland Community Centre.

They enable audience participation, with students playing djembe drums and generally enjoying the vibe.