African drumming and psychiatric rehabilitation

Author(s): Floersch, Jerry

Journal/Book: Psychosocial Rehabilitation Journal. 1993; 16: 3-10.

Abstract: A team consisting of an anthropologist, a social worker, and 2 professional musicians established a performing African drum ensemble at 2 Kansas City mental health centers (MHCs.) Weekly 50-min sessions were held; 12-15 clients attended on a regular basis but the group's open-door policy attracted 30 other individuals who attended at least 1 session. The drummers were predominantly male, racially mixed, and represented the spectrum of major psychiatric illnesses. The ensemble began performing at MHC banquets after 3 mo of meeting. Outcomes of this program complemented psychiatric rehabilitation by promoting a sense of accomplishment, forming a group identity, and allowing clients to make a positive contribution to society.

Note: performing in African drum ensemble & psychiatric rehabilitation; mental health center patients

Keyword(s): Psychiatric patients; psychosocial rehabilitation; music therapy; adulthood ; community mental health centers

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