Drums Alive Is An Outcome-based Disability Program, filled With Unique And Upbeat Learning Opportunities.

It can be challenging to find local disability services that offer constructive day programs or recreational activities. If you’re based in the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Hunter region, Drums Alive is your answer!

Originating in the United States, Drums Alive is an all-ages, all-inclusive day program that combines sense and movement with rhythmic drumming for an amazing brain and body workout. Participants develop sensorimotor and sociocognitive skills as they take on fun, capacity-building exercises.

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We now have Drums Alive sessions four days a week!

We now have Drums Alive sessions four days a week!

Drums Alive offers engaging group activities for individuals with disabilities to build and improve on social skills to form long lasting friendships, develop emotional and self regulation abilities and be a part of a community that works together – all while jamming to their favourite beats!

Our experienced coaches will deliver a meaningful, multi-sensory program for every single person, no matter their ability. But don’t take our word for it. Check out the video below to hear Drums Alive participants and their families rave about their experience.

Recreational Therapy With Scientific Support

Recreational Therapy With Scientific Support

There are many resources for individuals with disabilities, but only some have proven track records. The team behind Drums Alive strongly believe in backing their disability program with valid and reliable evidence (like this!), so that you can trust in its value.

In 2010, Drums Alive even partook in a worldwide study called THE DRUM BEAT – Chemnitz Drumming Project. This ongoing research examines the socio-cultural, educational, physical and mental health effects of drumming. Drums Alive was found to be a highly effective disability service with behavioral, cognitive and physical benefits for most participants.

How Does Drums Alive Help
Individuals With Disabilities?

Physical Outcomes

Drumming is great exercise for people with disabilities, supporting the physical skills needed for independence and productivity in everyday life. The beauty of this instrument is its accessibility – Even someone who has never played before can reap the benefits of its beats.

Not only is drumming a fantastic form of aerobics, it also develops kinaesthetic awareness. Our various playing techniques target a number of motor skills, improving participants’ strength, speed and synchrony.

Benefits

  • Raises heart rate and circulation
  • Improves posture and balance
  • Builds on fine and gross motor skills
  • Boosts cardiovascular endurance
  • Increases flexibility and coordination
  • Strengthens bones and builds muscle mass
  • Aids goals for weight loss

Cognitive Outcomes

There is so much value in drumming activities for people with intellectual disabilities, attention deficits and executive dysfunction. Drums Alive gives participants the opportunity to practice concentration and awareness within an enjoyable environment.

Steady rhythms increase blood flow across the brain, strengthening connections throughout language, attention and memory systems. This in turn improves our ability to engage, control, concentrate and remember.

Benefits

  • Improves memory function
  • Elevates critical thinking ability
  • Improves cognitive function
  • Offers sensory stimulation and engagement
  • Boosts the immune system

Social & Emotional Outcomes

Group sessions nurture a sense of belonging and self-worth by ensuring that every participant is a contributing member of the team. They also encourage the use of non-verbal communication, building social skills for successful cooperation.

At Drums Alive, we have created a safe environment where participants can let loose and forget about their limitations, fully expressing themselves through their music. Releasing all of that pent up energy creates a real sense of calm and relief.

Benefits

  • Provides a foundation for mood expression
  • Experience joy, vitality and wellness
  • Boosts confidence and self-esteem
  • Encourages group participation
  • Elicits pride in performing routines
  • Learn relaxation techniques

Educational Outcomes

There’s an undeniably strong link between movement and learning. Activities and games for people with learning difficulties often incorporate kinaesthetic elements to tap into hard-to-reach cognitive processes.

The creative drumming sessions in this day program allow participants to physically reinforce and comprehend their learnings as they play.

Benefits

  • Aids logical thinking
  • Enhances ability to follow directions
  • Improves the ability to follow a daily timetable
  • Fosters creativity and expression
  • Creates learning opportunities through tactile and fun activities

Try It Out With Our Online Video Tutorials!

Try It Out With Our Online Video Tutorials!

Every month, we’ll upload a new video tutorial showing you how to drum along to fun songs from the comfort of your own home.

Having a great time? If you like what you’ve learned, you are always welcome to participate in our Drums Alive classes!

Watch Our Tutorials Here!

What our customers say

Participants Interviews

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Frequently Asked Questions

Combining movement with the rhythmic beat of drums for a fun brain and body workout, this disability day program is suited to all ages and abilities. We welcome everyone to come along and join the party!

Day activities for adults with disabilities are held five days a week, Monday to Friday. Sessions last five hours and include some breaks.

Adult Class: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday, 9.30am-2.30pm

Sessions take place at our Songbird base in Thornton. Call us now on (02) 4048 4220 to arrange participation in exciting and rewarding disability activities!

Yes, we supply everything you need. However, if you would like to bring along your own musical instrument, please feel free to do so and we can incorporate it into our routine.

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Other ways Songbird can help...

A Proud Provider of NDIS Supports

Songbird is a modern disability services provider offering a range of NDIS supports across Newcastle, Maitland and the Hunter. As a registered NDIS provider since day one, we can help you navigate this revolutionary scheme and stay up-to-date with its latest news and information.

Become a Part of the Songbird Team

If you would like a career in disability support, please follow the link below to see if there are any opportunities to work with us. By joining Songbird, you will be enhancing the lives of people with disabilities, their families and carers. We are always happy to hear from enthusiastic applicants!

Get In Touch Today

Please send us a message via the online form below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!