Discovering the Rhythm of Working TogetherSteve was born and raised in South Africa where he was infused with its rhythm. He believes that the pulse and energy of his country are a real value to share with the world. Steve has been on the 'speakers' circuit for the past ten years. His message of music and engagement is felt by his audiences, be they 30 people in corporate surroundings, or 30 000 strong in a soccer stadium. He has conducted audiences at the Royal Albert Hall in London and at the opening ceremony of the 2003 Cricket World Cup in Cape Town, where he “whipped the audience into a frenzy”, according to Sunday Times. He has shared the stage with such luminaries as Rev. Desmond Tutu, Bill Clinton, John Major, Angelique Kidjo, Lisa Minelli, Nelson Mandela, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Ankor Choir.
Drumming & rhythm has been a part of civilization for millennia, Africa is the drum continent, it is here that drumming and percussion, song and dance, remains an essential group activity. In our modern society, group drumming has also found its rhythm. This unique and communal medium is being used as a tool within the business environment as a means to facilitate team building, stress-release, interpersonal interaction & celebration. The parallels between the modern business environment and making music are surprisingly similar; most obviously, they both depend on individuals working, as part of a whole, in pursuit of a common goal. As a motivator and team builder Steve draws on the energy of the audience making them an integral part of the presentation. The playing fields are levelled as heads of government and industry, participate alongside shop-floor workers and manual labourers. Steve integrates the needs and talents of the audience, without compromising them, and they come to realise that they are special as individuals, but are an essential part of something bigger. Through interaction with Steve as facilitator and conductor, and with each other, they eventually make their own rhythmical contribution, They feel the power of playing together in one pulse and share an amazing experience of harmony and unity.
Steve's facial expressions and body language are his basic communication tools. Whether using tubes, drums, hands, tins, sticks or any other form of percussive instrument, he guides the audience to find their own rhythm. In using non-verbal communication the effect is both personal and collective – the personal experience builds the greater collective experience. Through humour the participants are able to explore and inevitably discover their hidden rhythmic talents. It is this element that breaks through the inhibitions, the egos and the fears, to release the child within. As Steve conducts the audience - A percussion symphony emerges, with group energy reaching new heights.
- Synergy between the participants evolves.
- The drumming and percussion reach a climax that leaves participants elated.
With the use of rainbow percussion tubes, Steve conducts the audience. Delegates come away from the intervention, having experienced and having had the following demonstrated:
Personal energy and enthusiasm Inclusivity and empowerment Importance of body language “Actions speak louder than words” Consistent feedback and encouragement Concentration and focus Appropriate use of humour Making work serious fun
At the end of this session, certain concepts and metaphors, emerge from the experiential exercise in rhythm and interaction, which are taken away by delegates and can be naturally applied to business and everyday life, these include: Communication and focus Teamwork Relationships and cooperation with others Transcending social boundaries i.e. accepting and working with cultural diversity Working towards common objectives Group cohesiveness within an organization Using adversity to inspire a team
Participants walk away having been part of a process of a musical group evolution, but with real insight on its practical application within their everyday reality. |
