LIBERTY — A group of individuals who like drumming as a way to relax and have fun have gotten together at the Unity Spiritual Centre, 1226 Naylor Lloyd Road for various events.

Recently they gathered there to mark the summer solstice.

The drumming sessions are led by Dan and Pam Susany of Lisbon who have done this since 1997.

“We hope when people drum they connect with themselves and each other. That is what we aspire to when we get together. We also want people to have fun and relax,” Dan Susany said.

Susany said there is no particular way to drum, but it’s more of a physical act.

“It’s like when you are driving a car and hear something on the radio and you start to tap your fingers and play with the rhythm. As a drummer, we are not doing anything more elaborate than that,” he said.

Susany said a core group has been drumming together for 20 to 25 years.

He said one woman in the group attended church at Unity Centre so a drum circle began monthly at the location. Susany said COVID-19 put an end to much of the getting together in recent years.

Now the drumming is done for special occasions, he said.

The sessions take place on the lawn outside the center.

“We encourage people to drum how they feel,” he said, noting drums are provided to those who may not have one to bring to the sessions.

Cathy Miller of Howland is new to drumming and was encouraged to take part by Marcia Delaratta of Howland.

“I have always found the sessions interesting. I like drumming to a rhythm. We are on a quest for new experiences,” Delaratta said.

Susany said the drumming can be energizing and relaxing at the same time.

“For many people, it is a release of tension. When your tension is gone, you do find you have energy. Jokingly, we say there should be no thinking at the drumming circle,” he said.

Miller said she has been under some stress recently and felt taking part in drumming would help her relax.

Roger Juntunen of Hubbard said he had extra drums and gave some as gifts for others.

“I got a new drum, so I was able to give the others away. I like being able to bang on the drums and the social aspect of being here with others. Since we had many people here who like to drum, we decided to form a drumming circle,” he said.

Colleen Kucyk of Cortland said she has been at various drumming events, including one that involved a medicine wheel.

“I always get such good energy being part of this. It creates a good feeling and good energy,” she said.

Susany said when he was younger, he and Pam would spend several hours drumming, but now take only about an hour.

“I hope those taking part are able to connect not only with the group but their own energy and body,” he said.

The Susanys host a monthly drum circle at the Presbyterian Church in Columbiana.

Chuck Skubish of Sharon, Pa., said the recent session was the second time he has attended.

“Drumming in the summer has always been fascinating. It has been very relaxing and fun to be here,” he said.

bcoupland@tribtoday.com