Jesse Golding (left), Afro-Caribbean drumming instructor, and students from Clan Carthy High School teach Dr Elizabeth Ward (second left), chair of the VPA, and Hazel Cameron, principal of Clan Carthy High School how to play the drums.
June 7, 2024
Drums for peace now beating at Clan Carthy High
Clan Carthy High School Principal Hazel Cameron has welcomed the Drumming for Peace Programme which has been extended to the institution by the Violence Prevention Alliance (VPA).
“I am really excited about this initiative. It is a very good programme, and I know our students will benefit immensely. We are fully on board. Thank you so much for including us,” said Cameron as the initiative was officially inaugurated at the school with an engaging drumming exchange session recently.
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Donnet Phillips, project manager at VPA, highlighted Clan Carthy’s facilities and the support from its teaching staff as key reasons for selecting the school. She said that since its inception in 2020 the programme has shown remarkable success, significantly impacting students.
“We have observed a notable reduction in anger among participants. Bullies have transformed into supportive partners and leaders in the drumming space, while shy young boys have gained confidence and power through drumming,” said Phillips.
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In the meantime, Dr Elizabeth Ward, chair of the VPA, underscored the project’s scope and impact. She said research has shown that drumming boosts the immune system.
In addition, specific studies conducted by professionals in the fields of music therapy and mental health show that drumming reduces tension, anxiety, and stress.
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The programme, funded by the American Friends of Jamaica and the Cecil Boswell Facey Foundation, builds on the methodology of the Drum Therapy Project. This project has been successfully implemented in schools, community groups, and childcare facilities since 2020.
Initially piloted in six childcare facilities under the mandate of the Child Protection and Family Services Agency, the Drum Therapy Project was expanded to seven more in 2021. To date, it has reached 22 institutions, integrating its therapeutic approach into their programming.
The Drumming for Peace Programme continues to resonate with students, fostering a supportive and empowering environment. As it expands to more schools like Clan Carthy High, its positive influence on youth and communities is expected to grow even further, said Dr Ward.
