Program Model

RhythmVision is an integrated program consisting of three modular components: A drum making seminar Multiple drum facilitation workshops Subsequent recording/songwriting sessions

Wheel of Courage

RhythmVision will enable community based learning by teaching the values of self-expression and kinship via the pursuit of shared objectives. This non-profit organization will use musical means to explore metaphorical lessons and real-time applications in life relating to:

RhythmVision is committed to providing group oriented experiences that foster ideal modes of human interaction and individual expression. We use instructional methods supported by the National Educational Service (NES) that incorporate Native American learning strategies as outlined in the book, Reclaiming Youth at Risk by Brendtro, Brokenleg, and Van Bockern. While creating music, participants will also be engaged in processes that promote self-reflection and community awareness. RhythmVision focuses on what we call the “four words”: Belonging/Independence/Mastery/Generosity

Belonging: RhythmVision promotes a welcoming of people and ideas in the pursuit of creating challenging and interesting music as a shared experience. Behaviors that undermine the emotional safety of any one or more person in the program are discouraged and are addressed in a manner that directly relates back to the needs of the group.

Independence: The ability to function well within a group requires individuals to explore their own unique voices. This occurs when people feel emotionally safe enough to take healthy risks. RhythmVision provides opportunities, through musical means, for everyone to engage in self-expression. We employ strength-based strategies and assessment tools in order to articulate to the group the validity of each participant’s contributions. As projects move towards completion, individual efforts become relevant to an overall composition of elements they watch develop over time.

Mastery: Because RhythmVision utilizes the drum circle as a first step into the world of creative expression, skill development occurs from the onset. Drumming is a low-risk activity that by its very nature is all-inclusive. Participants can access their initial skill levels and musical voice without pronounced scrutiny. This is because the focus during drum circle facilitation is on the group. During this activity, participants are invited to lead the circle after demonstration and modeling by RhythmVision staff. This approach encourages leadership and acknowledges the value of people in support roles. Participants record their drumming throughout the program and use other instruments and technology while learning to write songs reflecting musical and interpersonal growth.

Generosity: From the first moment of contact, RhythmVision uses a language base that encourages and recognizes participant’s development within the context of the ”four words”. Generous behavior is the target of RhythmVision and a culmination of the other three categories. Basically, if participants have felt safe enough to explore their creative potential and learn to express themselves in a productive manner, they must share these newfound discoveries with the group.

Summar Program with Easter Seal

In order to complete projects set forth by RhythmVision, everyone involved becomes familiar with the individual strengths of each member and uses them to the fullest potential. This is the final stage and the program participants begin to understand the value of the process regardless of the end product. RhythmVision models this by giving the end product back to the client for fundraising purposes.

© 2005 RhythmVision