Robin Blate, a resident of Stevenson Ranch, is on a mission to enhance the well-being of seniors in the Santa Clarita Valley through the power of drumming. Following the loss of her job during the COVID-19 pandemic, Blate discovered the therapeutic benefits of drumming and is now working to establish drum circles specifically designed for older adults in local senior facilities.
Blate has been actively approaching activities directors at various senior homes, proposing to lead collective drumming experiences where residents can engage with hand drums and percussion instruments. “I’m not a drummer, and I don’t want to teach drumming to seniors,” she explained in a recent interview. “I want to introduce them to the joys of rhythm and wellness.”
Research indicates that many seniors experience a lack of socialization, which can detract from their quality of life. Blate believes that drum circles can provide a much-needed social outlet. She emphasized that drumming can also have significant health benefits, aiding those with conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and anxiety. Additionally, she noted that even healthy seniors can benefit from drumming as a preventive measure against cognitive decline.
Arianna Monge, a board-certified music therapist and rhythm and wellness program manager for Remo Inc., supports Blate’s initiative. “A facilitated drum circle is an amazing activity to engage people,” Monge stated. “Anyone who’s inspired enough to learn to facilitate rhythmic events can make a difference in their community.” She underscored the importance of such activities for the well-being of seniors.
Blate’s passion for music is deeply rooted; she grew up in a musically inclined family where her father played multiple instruments, and her sister sang. Throughout her career, she has held various office roles, including a notable position at CBS Records in the 1970s, where she worked closely with music legends. One memorable moment included presenting a signing gift to Ringo Starr when he joined CBS after the Beatles.
After her office job in Valencia ended during the pandemic, Blate began volunteering at the Remo Music Center, where she met Elsie Van Bruaene, the sister of Remo Belli, the founder of the company known for its innovative percussion instruments. Van Bruaene encouraged Blate to join a Zoom drum circle, leading her to assist in facilitating a kids’ drum circle at the center. “I call it drum therapy,” she said, highlighting the joy it brings to children, some as young as six months.
The Remo Music Center, established in Valencia in 2018, aims to introduce drumming to a broad audience, believing in its health benefits. Monge confirmed that the center hosts adult drum circles on the first and third Tuesday of every month, alongside family-friendly sessions every Saturday. Blate has contributed significantly to the success of these events, as noted by Mike DeMenno, the center’s manager. He remarked on her ability to connect with diverse groups and her dedication to facilitating musical activities.
Recently, Blate realized that the benefits she witnessed in children could also be extended to seniors. This prompted her to create business cards and visit local senior facilities, offering drum circles as part of their activity programs. The card’s back reflects the vision of Remo Belli: “to better the human condition” through drumming.
Monge praised Blate’s initiative, stating that the demand for such activities will only increase as the senior population grows. “We need people like Robin out there spreading the joy and activity of drumming,” she said.
Blate is committed to sharing her passion for drumming with seniors, aiming to foster their health and social interaction. “I’m passionate about the effects of drumming for seniors,” she affirmed. “I want to share the importance of keeping healthy and active in the golden years.”
For those interested in learning more about Blate’s drum circles, she can be contacted via email at [email protected]. Additional information about the Remo Music Center can be found at Remo.com/rmc.