https://arab.news/gfbkz
JEDDAH: Hayy Jameel hosted its first-ever drumming circle on Saturday, starting a new monthly program designed to bring people together through rhythm, movement and shared creative expression.
Held under the Hayy Sounds and Hayy Wellness initiatives, the session introduced participants to collective drumming as an interactive experience.
Drumming circles are widely associated with well-being benefits including relaxation, emotional release, improved focus and stronger group awareness.
The gathering welcomed people of different ages and backgrounds, encouraging them to make music even if they had not had any prior experience.
Saif Halal, drummer and facilitator of restorative sound and breathwork, said: “We had participants break into groups, and each group came up with their own unique song.
“Because the drum is so elemental, everyone was able to come together, collaborate and create a unique beat with their group.”
On the lessons from shared rhythm, he said: “The biggest lesson is the power of listening.
“In a drumming circle, to truly express your individuality, you first have to be open and willing to listen to the contributions of others.
“Participants had to listen to my guidance to start, and also learn to listen to themselves.
“Working with sound is a path that helps me discover my own individual expression. It’s a beautiful cycle that translates directly into building stronger, more balanced relationships both within and beyond.”
Speaking about the inspiration behind bringing the sessions to Hayy Jameel, he said: “The primary inspiration comes from my teacher, Alaa Abanami, who is my mentor and biggest supporter on my journey in sound healing.
“When the idea was presented to the Hayy Jameel team, they were incredibly open and graciously welcomed us.
“Today was our first session, and the response was wonderful. By the end, everyone was playing, sharing and leaving with genuine joy and excitement for the next session.”
He spoke about how the drums were the first instrument that deeply moved him.
“My hope is that participants discover that same magic, realize how easily they can tap into their own musicality and find their inner flow and for the circles to foster greater connection and joy,” he said.
Percussionist Mohamed Hassan Ali Gomaa said the session focused on “connection through rhythm,” aiming to create a space where people from different backgrounds could come together and express themselves through music.
He said: “Participants are encouraged to leave feeling energized, relaxed and more connected to both themselves and those around them.
“Rhythm has always been seen as a universal language that brings people together, which inspired the creation of community drumming circles built around unity, joy and shared experience.”
The sessions are designed to help reduce stress, build confidence and strengthen their sense of belonging within the community.
“Jeddah’s growing cultural landscape is further enriched by group drumming, which encourages participation rather than observation and helps foster stronger cultural connections through creativity and rhythm.”
Dania Jaber, public programs and events coordinator at Hayy Jameel said: “We believe public programming should be welcoming, accessible and rooted in community.
“We are always looking for ways to bring people together through shared creative experiences, whether that is music, learning, making or wellness.”
“A great example is our new Hayy Sounds x Hayy Wellness initiative, presented through the Drumming Circles project, which invites participants to connect in a fun and inclusive setting.”
The sessions are free and open to all participants.