“Back in the 1950s and ’60s when girls wanted to play the drums in their high school band, they were sometimes handed a flute or clarinet instead. “That still happens today,” according to Bettie Seitzer. That is despite the best efforts of Saint Paul’s Women’s Drum Center. Seitzer serves as executive director of the drum center, which for the past 33 years has been defying the notion that drums are too masculine for women to play. …” Continue Reading

Walkup, C. (2023, 01 10). They’ve got the beat. My Villager. myvillager.com/2023/01/10/theyve-got-the-beat/

2024 will be a great year for the WDC! Over the past few years, the WDC has been able to add new classes and workshops; the growth was a direct outcome of the volunteer hours and efforts of instructors, board members, and volunteers. As far as we know, there is no other organization like ours in the country! Our mission and vision have evolved over the years but have always included a commitment to developing women as musicians, performers, and leaders. Women join for the joyful experience of making energetic music with “the sisters they chose for themselves”; they soon learn that there are many additional opportunities to lead initiatives, start and lead programs, learn about cultures around the world, and be nurtured and supported in their personal, professional and musical endeavors. 

The WDC will continue the expansion of community outreach programs this year. March 11th is a training for drum circle facilitators, an important first step to being able to offer more off-site drum circles. The training is open to anyone who would like to share the fun and positive benefits of community drumming. Later in the year, we will offer additional trainings targeted to activity directors who are responsible for providing enrichment to groups in congregate living situations.

Our popular classes will continue – Women Who Groove, Djembe Diyamu, and three beginner classes. drumHeart is thriving under the skilled leadership of Alex Connett; audition prep workshops will be offered by Jo Klein at various times throughout the year. In 2022 Jo Klein offered the first DrumLine Camp series, which is back by popular demand; she has also added an introductory hand drum series. A Taiko series, to be taught by Sandi and Jim Likely, will provide an opportunity to experience Japanese percussion style. Rhythms of Wellness will continue to offer a range of healing and self-care methodologies; something that is still needed as we continue to navigate the challenges of our time. The monthly Friday night co-ed drum circles will continue with a rotating set of leaders, each one bringing their own instruments, rhythms, and styles. Instrument-making workshops will be offered again this year: participants can make their own frame drum at a workshop led by Alex, and Bettie will teach her “Shaker Maker” workshop in the fall.

The WDC continues to strive to offer a variety of percussion experiences, serving absolute beginners to advanced players. People don’t even need to own a drum to get started. We have a huge collection of instruments, many of which were donated by current and previous members. Their generosity enriches our studio and supports the ability to welcome new members!

The WDC also offers leadership opportunities, because volunteer organizations run on people power. What is your percussion dream? Leading drum circles, teaching a class, designing a percussion-focused program? Reaching out to communities who could benefit from our offerings, coordinating performance schedules, managing a concert? Soliciting donations, or maybe connecting the WDC with drumming groups in the Twin Cities and beyond? Don’t hesitate to reach out and offer your ideas, your time, and your energy...we’re looking forward to nurturing your growth!

The WDC Board partnered with Nan Hildebrandt, a local graphic designer, to develop a new logo for our organization. We are excited to unveil our new look, inspired by the strength, vibrancy, and versatility of our community.