Hartpury University has joined forces with the Cirencester and Stroud Branch of Parkinson’s UK, Inspire Drums, and the University of Wolverhampton to explore the potential benefits of drumming for people living with Parkinson’s disease.
This innovative pilot project involved 12 weekly drumming sessions led by Stroud-based Inspire Drums, with participants playing on electronic drum kits. The research team, including Hartpury University’s Professor Steve Draper and PhD student Afrika Green, alongside Dr Tina Smith from the University of Wolverhampton, evaluated the programme through a combination of physical measurements and participant feedback.
Professor Steve Draper, co-founder of the renowned Clem Burke Drumming Project, emphasised the collaborative and exploratory nature of the research.
“Drumming engages both mind and body in a unique way, and this pilot programme has allowed us to investigate its potential to improve mobility and quality of life for people with Parkinson’s,” he said.
Participants in the study have reported promising outcomes. One gentleman, who has lived with Parkinson’s for 20 years, noted improvements in his mobility.
Another participant experienced noticeable benefits as well. His wife observed, “When he’s sitting at the drums, I’ve noticed his tremor sometimes calms down. He’s also really enjoyed the social aspect of the sessions.”
Phil Jones, founder and CEO of Inspire Drums and tutor for the project, described the initiative as focused on “small wins”. “We’re not trying to create world-class drummers, we’re looking at how drumming can help with everyday challenges like mobility, reduced shaking, and even speech,” he explained. “The progression and tangible difference we’ve seen are incredibly encouraging.”
Afrika Green, a professional drummer and PhD student at Hartpury University, reflected on the project’s significance: "Seeing participants engage with the drum kits and challenge themselves has been incredibly rewarding. It highlights the potential for creative activities to support physical and mental wellbeing.”
The sessions took place in Frampton Mansell near Stroud, with participants using electronic drum kits and headphones to hear the tutor’s voice and their own playing.
Hartpury University has previously assisted with research to explore whether drumming can improve brain function. The University of Wolverhampton is conducting research on movement issues and symptom monitoring in Parkinson’s disease.
Research carried out by Hartpury University, submitted as part of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 process, has been recognised as ‘world-leading’ and ‘internationally excellent’, placing Hartpury amongst a prestigious group of well-established institutions. Staff and students frequently take part in research activities designed to make a positive impact on their respective industries.
