Drum Circle in Siesta Key

Siesta Key Drum Circle: A Vibrant Community Gathering

ByKevin Brighton

Are you looking for a unique and memorable experience during your visit to Sarasota, Florida? Look no further than the Siesta Key Drum Circle. This weekly event, held every Sunday evening at Siesta and Englewood Beaches, has become a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike.

As the sun begins to set, the drumming starts and a compelling rhythm fills the air. Dancers and spectators gather to move together in celebration of sundown. The energy and sense of community at the Siesta Key Drum Circle is truly magical. And the best part? Everyone is welcome to join in the fun.

Whether you’re a seasoned drummer or a first-time visitor, the Siesta Key Drum Circle is an experience not to be missed. So grab a drum, bring your family and friends, and get ready to feel the beat on the beautiful beaches of Sarasota.

Key Details:

History of Siesta Key Drum Circle

The Siesta Key Drum Circle has been a beloved tradition on Siesta Key Beach for over two decades. The drum circle began in the late 1990s (most believe it started at 1996), when a small group of local musicians and artists started gathering on the beach to play music and dance.

As word of the impromptu gatherings spread, more and more people began to join in the fun, and the Siesta Key Drum Circle was born. The drum circle quickly became a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, and it has been going strong ever since.

Over the years, the Siesta Key Drum Circle has evolved and grown, but it has always remained true to its roots as a free-spirited celebration of music, dance, and community. Today, the drum circle attracts hundreds of people every Sunday evening, and it has become a beloved institution on Siesta Key Beach.

Despite its popularity, the Siesta Key Drum Circle has faced some challenges over the years. In the early days, some condo owners in the area complained about the noise and tried to shut down the drum circle. However, the community rallied around the drum circle, and it was ultimately allowed to continue.

Today, the Siesta Key Drum Circle is a cherished part of the Siesta Key community, and it continues to bring people together to celebrate music, dance, and the beauty of the beach.

Where and When is Siesta Key Drum Circle

The Siesta Key Drum Circle is held every Sunday on Siesta Beach, located on the barrier island of Siesta Key, Florida. The beach is easily accessible by car, bike, or foot and offers ample parking for visitors. The address for Siesta Beach is 948 Beach Rd, Siesta Key, FL 34242.

The drumming begins an hour before sunset and lasts for approximately one hour. The timing of the drum circle changes depending on the time of year, so it’s best to check the official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.

It’s important to note that the drum circle is a free event, and no reservations or tickets are required to attend. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own instruments, chairs, and refreshments to enjoy the event. However, please keep in mind that alcohol and glass containers are not permitted on the beach.

If you’re planning to attend the Siesta Key Drum Circle, it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a spot. The event is popular among locals and tourists alike, and the beach can become crowded as sunset approaches. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring a flashlight or headlamp for the walk back to your car after the event, as the beach can be dark at night.

This could be an an experience that is completely different than the parasailing, scuba diving, jet skiing that are so associated with Siesta Key.

Other Drum Circles Locations in Sarasota County.

Englewood Drum Circle

Sunday evenings year round. On Beach Road, across the street from Lock & Key and The Waverly Restaurants. Just to the right of the pavilion.

Nokomis Beach Drum Circle

Casey Key Rd. Every Wednesday and Saturday beginning around 4:30 on the main beach area.

Venice Beach Drum Circle

Every Sunday about 1 1/2 hours before sunset. On Venice Beach. West of the pavilion.

Can I Join In?

Yes, anyone is welcome to join the drum circle and participate in the rhythmic music-making. No prior experience is necessary, and it’s a great opportunity to connect with others and experience the vibrant energy of the Siesta Key community.

Significance

One of the most significant aspects of the drum circle is the sense of community that it fosters. People from all walks of life come together to share in the experience, and there is a strong sense of unity and camaraderie among the participants. The drum circle is a judgment-free zone, and everyone is welcome to join in the fun, regardless of their age, background, or skill level.

Another important aspect of the drum circle is its connection to nature. The event takes place on the beach, and participants are encouraged to take in the beauty of the sunset and the ocean while they drum and dance. This connection to nature is an essential part of the experience, and it helps to create a sense of peace and harmony among the participants.

The Siesta Key Drum Circle is also significant because of its impact on the local community. The event has become a popular attraction for visitors to the area, and it has helped to boost tourism in the region. Additionally, the drum circle has become a source of pride for the local community, and it has helped to build a strong sense of identity and community spirit among the residents of Siesta Key.

Instruments Used

The Siesta Key Drum Circle is an informal gathering of percussionists and dancers who meet in public for the purpose of playing drums and dancing. Here are some of the most common instruments you can expect to see at the Siesta Key Drum Circle:

Djembe

The djembe is a West African drum that is played with bare hands. It is one of the most popular drums used in the Siesta Key Drum Circle. Djembes come in different sizes and are made from various types of wood. They produce a deep, resonant sound that can be heard from a distance.

djembe

Conga

The conga is a tall, narrow drum that is played with the hands. It originated in Cuba and is commonly used in Latin American music. Congas come in different sizes and are made from wood or fiberglass. They produce a high-pitched sound that can be heard over other instruments.

Bongos

The bongos are a pair of small, hand-held drums that are played with the hands. They originated in Cuba and are commonly used in Latin American music. Bongos produce a high-pitched sound that can be heard over other instruments.

Shakers

Shakers are small percussion instruments that are played by shaking them. They come in different shapes and sizes and are made from various materials such as wood, plastic, and metal. Shakers produce a soft, rattling sound that adds texture to the music.

Tambourine

The tambourine is a small, circular drum that is played by shaking or hitting it with the hand. It has small metal discs called jingles that produce a bright, metallic sound. Tambourines are commonly used in folk music and can be heard in the Siesta Key Drum Circle.

tambourine

Other Instruments

In addition to the instruments listed above, you might also see other percussion instruments such as maracas, cowbells, and cymbals at the Siesta Key Drum Circle. The types of instruments used can vary depending on the participants and the mood of the circle.

Participation

Joining the Siesta Key Drum Circle is easy and encouraged. Whether you are an experienced drummer or have never played before, you are welcome to participate. Here are some tips to help you get started:

  • Bring your own drum: While there are usually extra drums available, bringing your own drum is recommended. This ensures that you have an instrument that you are comfortable with and that you can play for the entire evening.
  • Listen and learn: Before jumping in, take some time to listen to the rhythm and feel the beat. This will help you get in sync with the other drummers and dancers.
  • Follow the leader: There is usually a lead drummer who sets the rhythm and tempo for the group. Watch and listen to them closely, and try to follow their lead.
  • Experiment and have fun: The Siesta Key Drum Circle is a place for experimentation and creativity. Don’t be afraid to try new rhythms or beats, and don’t worry about making mistakes. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the music.
  • Respect others: While the drum circle is a place for self-expression, it is also important to respect the space and the other participants. Avoid playing too loudly or aggressively, and be mindful of others who may be dancing or meditating.

Etiquette

Attending the Siesta Key Drum Circle can be a fun and exciting experience. However, it is important to be aware of the etiquette to ensure that everyone can enjoy the event. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

Respect the performers

The drummers are the heart of the circle, and without them, there would be no music. It is important to respect their space and not interfere with their performance. Avoid touching their instruments or standing too close to them. If you want to dance, do it outside the circle so that you don’t disrupt the drummers.

Join the circle respectfully

If you want to join the circle, wait for an invitation from one of the drummers. They will typically signal to you when it’s okay to enter. When you do join, make sure that you don’t disrupt the rhythm. Listen to what the other drummers are playing and try to match their beat.

Be mindful of others

The Siesta Key Drum Circle is a community event, and it’s important to be mindful of others. Avoid bringing large bags or chairs that take up too much space. If you need to sit, bring a small blanket or towel that you can easily fold up when you’re done. Be aware of your surroundings and try not to block the view of others.

Clean up after yourself

The Siesta Key Drum Circle takes place on the beach, so it’s important to keep the area clean. Bring a trash bag with you and dispose of your garbage properly. If you see any litter on the ground, pick it up and dispose of it. Remember, we all have a responsibility to keep the beach clean and beautiful.

Overall, the Siesta Key Drum Circle is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area. It is an opportunity to connect with others, experience the local culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So grab a drum, join the circle, and let the music move you!