Radstock WI were fortunate to have Frances Parrott come along with a huge selection of her African drums (doumbeks) of all sizes. Frances showed us how we could get different sounds by beating them in different areas.

We started off slowly, and then progressed to three different beats, then doing these in groups and rounds.

As each different rhythm was introduced, Frances gave it a name – one being Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, so as we were sitting in a large circle, it was hilarious to glance up and see everyone really concentrating and miming Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Frances also played some backing tracks of African music and even a Queen track, to which we all played our drums. Frances was great fun and obviously very patient, but we all had a great time and the evening passed too quickly.

If you ever get the opportunity to try this, seize it! You will enjoy it.

We meet on the second Monday of the month at the main hall, in Radstock Methodist Church, from 7.15 p.m to 9.45 p.m.

Our next meeting will be on Monday, 13th November, which is our AGM and a quiz. There will be no meeting in October, as we will be out for our annual pre-booked, Birthday Meal.

New members are always welcome, so please feel free to come along and join us as a visitor.

Jill Jordan