Katy Gaughan: Healing Through Rhythm

The heartbeat of Takoma Park is deeply entrenched in drumming, and listening to Katy Gaughan talk about the power of its healing, one can easily see why.  Ms Gaughan, a resident of Takoma Park for over ten years, has been a hand drummer and drum facilitator for a long time.  Her creation Music Heals Us Drum Circles “intends to bring people together, to create positive vibrations through the drum.”

My interview with Katy in her home was both intimate and revealing.  In addition to drumming, we discussed her relationship with three bands – Djesben, The John K Band and husband John’s guitar and vocal work within today’s Grateful Dead formation, Furthur.  I found in it something quite fascinating and reminiscent of The Dead where the “rope” dividing audience and band members blurs in a moment-by-moment inventive musical jam exploration.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwGv4UiR9D8&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otDxtXnHSFM&feature=related