	Fire Tribe Hawaii

2011 Winter Solstice Gathering

Leeward Oahu
December 13-18, 2011

Alchemical Rhythmatism

I've worked the alchemical fire circle intensely for years. I primarily dance, I've challenged myself to sing, I rattle, hand water around, and occasionally do a spoken word piece... but the drummers' benches always felt out of reach. I didn't have the confidence to play. I didn't know how to get in and fit in. I didn't want to spoil the groove.

After attending an Alchemical Rhythmatism workshop, I felt totally safe joining in to play drums. I knew how to find my part and play it. Other drummers spoke my part so I could pick it up. I knew how to communicate with the other players, each doing their part in a divine rhythm ensemble. It was completely exhilarating to be part of the music.

This allows experienced drummers to effortlessly lead, and gives beginners an entree to the ecstatic world of coordinated, but creative music-making. There is room for everyone to learn and play and participate. — Lillith Avalon

Drummers! Musicians! Take Note....

Musicians at Fire Tribe Hawaii's fire circles use a method called "Alchemical Rhythmatism" to fluctuate between free-form exploration (or "Uncontrolled Burn") and a more structured method of musical collaboration.

This cycle nurtures harmony, enriches sonic diversity, and takes us to new levels of creative play.

Fun, hands-on playshops held at the Gathering introduce the practice of Alchemical Rhythmatism, which offers a simple blueprint to empower everyone (from the complete novice to the most accomplished musician) to collaboratively invent a common groove in the moment.

Alchemical Rhythmatism has simple techniques that result in high quality music, and it gives players ways to connect with, guide and encourage one another.

To find out more about how this is done, please read Quick Reference for Alchemical Rhythmatism.