New drumming and percussion sessions launch for people with Parkinson's in Smethwick and Birmingham
Rhythm for the Brain is a new drumming and percussion programme for people with Parkinson's in Smethwick and the West Midlands, launching on Monday 9 November at Dorothy Parkes Community Centre with 13 sessions running until March 2027.
Beat It Percussion and Parkinson's UK are launching Rhythm for the Brain at Dorothy Parkes Community Centre in Smethwick on Monday 9 November, offering 13 drumming and percussion sessions for West Midlands Parkinson's communities.
People living with Parkinson's in Smethwick, Birmingham and surrounding areas of the West Midlands are being invited to try a new drumming and rhythmic percussion class designed to help local communities stay active in a creative way.
Rhythm for the Brain
Delivered by experienced coaches from Beat It Percussion, the new Rhythm for the Brain sessions launch on Monday 9 November from 11am to 12pm at the Dorothy Parkes Community Centre on Church Road in Smethwick (B67 6EH). A programme of 13 sessions will run through to March 2027, giving West Midlands Parkinson's communities an engaging way to stay active over the winter months.
No previous musical experience is required, all ages and abilities are welcome, and all drumming and percussion equipment is provided on site. Relatives, friends and carers are also welcome to join in the sessions or stay and watch.
Benefits of rhythmic drumming
Rhythmic drumming and percussion can bring a wide range of benefits for people living with Parkinson's, including:
- Improved posture and upper-body mobility
- Better balance and physical coordination
- Stronger hand-eye coordination
- A boost to mood, social connection and overall wellbeing
Drumming is also adaptable: participants can play together in a group, work one-to-one with a coach or take part at their own pace.
Lynn Kay, CEO at Beat It Percussion, said: "I'm delighted to be able to offer the new rhythmic drumming and percussion classes for people with Parkinson's.
"This is the first project of its kind in the local area and I hope that people living with the condition in Smethwick and the surrounding areas will be able to take advantage of the new offer.
"Drumming can be an expressive and creative way to get active, plus you don't need to be an experienced musician to enjoy it, and I look forward to welcoming more people with Parkinson's to the new classes."
How to take part
To find out more about the new drumming and percussion sessions in Smethwick, email beatitpercussion@gmail.com or call Lynn on 07875 090 946.
About Parkinson's UK
Parkinson's UK is the UK's leading charity for people affected by Parkinson's, funding research and providing support and community activities across the country. If you or someone you know is affected by Parkinson's, the charity runs a free, confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303, with further information at parkinsons.org.uk.
Published in partnership with Parkinson's UK. Story information and photograph supplied by Philip Lindley at Parkinson's UK.
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Frequently asked questions
When and where do the new Smethwick drumming sessions for people with Parkinson's take place?
The Rhythm for the Brain drumming and percussion sessions launch on Monday 9 November from 11am to 12pm at Dorothy Parkes Community Centre, Church Road, Smethwick, B67 6EH, with 13 sessions running until March 2027. No previous experience is needed, all equipment is provided, and relatives and carers are welcome.