Hong Kong drum clinic pioneer preaches community unity

Kumi Masunaga came to Hong Kong as many expatriates do - to see what the city could offer her. But rather than finding her niche in finance, teaching English or engineering, Masunaga found hers in helping others "find their voice" through drumming circles or, as she calls it, the "drum jam".

Once the domain of indigenous peoples, drumming circles are becoming mainstream.

Masunaga's love of music began early in her native Japan; piano at the age of three, drum kit at 10, and guitar at 13. After being inspired by an African musical troupe, she immersed herself in African drumming, with many solo trips to West Africa where, she says, "Drum music celebrates every moment of life." There she found the rhythms that feel "so natural to me, yet electrifying".

Settling in Hong Kong in 1990, Masunaga taught African drumming through the Academy for Performing Arts, and in 2001 she started Drum Jam with the support of a local music retailer. Through word of mouth, her drum circles became larger, and continue to attract Hongkongers of all descriptions: schoolchildren, families, community groups, corporate clients. "Our drum beats echo throughout Hong Kong and Asia," she says.

There is a message in all that sound (and a bit of fury, too). "Drumming is truly accessible to all ages and can be enjoyed by everyone. It is an extraordinary tool that uplifts, motivates, energises, connects and heals. I want to see drum music reaching more people and become a unique social glue. As a drum circle facilitator, I have personally witnessed the power of drum to reduce tension, energise the tired, and promote playfulness and togetherness."

Kidz Drum Jam sessions in schools are one of Masunaga's most popular programmes. "Drum Jam, at its entry level, opens doors for students to the world of drumming. Listening skills, musical dynamism, physical coordination as well as a good understanding of polyrhythms are developed.