Nothing like a drum circle to warm youup on a cold winter day , ” said Jon Roe of Vernon , talking about the Family Dance and Drum event held on Jan . 11 .

The high-energy drumming event was facilitated by drummer and musician Dennis Cotton of Power of The Drum , who was joined by Vicky Hannon , a Yoga instructor at Breathe … more in Tolland , and Jane Roets , the director of Music Together in Tolland . The trio worked together at Breathe … more’s studio to lead moms , dads , children and those interested in music in various drum beats and dances .

Cotton , who moved to Connecticut in 2006 from upstate New York and now lives in South Windsor , opened up the affair by explaining the ABCs of drumming to those that were brand new to the experience . “ Nothing youcan do with a drum is wrong , ” Cotton assured the newcomers , who may have been feeling at some disadvantage , not having played before . And with little direction , the 30 or so musicians were off and playing .

The room , usually used for quiet reflection and mediation , was quickly pounding with drum beats . Cherie Trice , the owner of Breathe … more and host of the event , mentioned that the sound-proofing of the studio was good for keeping the noise in for the event and also helps to keep the noise out for regular Yoga practice .

Not everyone was new to the drum circle . Terry Nicholas of Ellington had such a good time the first time she participated last year, she said that she had to come back with her God son as soon as she heard about this latest event .

After an opening segment of drumming , Roets took over and gathered the children in the room to the front in a circle with egg shakers to sing a song , while the adults drummed in the back . The children passed the eggs to the drum beats – first to the right and then to the left . Cotton guided the drummers in a different pace , and it didn’t take long for the drummers to react and contribute their own sound to collectively pulse as if arranged ahead of time .

Vicky Hannon and Christine Kjellquist , a local ballroom dance instructor and who is also affiliated with Music Together , helped to lead anyone wanting to dance in the movement segment of the afternoon . The children followed in a circle , waving scarves and going in different directions .

Cotton , who has 17 yearsof experience teaching music and drumming , believes drum circles have a magical effect that is indescribable . Cotton explained the reward of leading drum circles to people who wouldn’t be considered yourtypical drummers . You give someone a drum and see what happens , he said . “ I don’t question it , ” Cotton explained . “ I just am amazed every time . ” All the proceeds taken as donations at the Family Dance and Drum went to Tolland Human Services .

To learn more about Cotton’s events or his free , once a month drum circle in South Windsor , visit the Web site www . powerofthedrum . com .