Drum educator, teacher and facilitator T.R. McKotch will offer a weekly hand drum class titled “Rhythmic Explorations” every Saturday at SoundRhythms Studios, 111 W. Second St., Jamestown.

The class begins Saturday, Jan. 9, and will be held from 10-11 a.m.

During the weekly class McKotch will present his “Rhythmic Explorations” program which will feature participants of ages 16 and up experiencing interactive, facilitated group drumming.

“Rhythmic Explorations is a fully interactive rhythm experience that is perfect for anyone interested in learning and experiencing non-stop, high-energy drumming for an hour every week,” McKotch said. “Everyone, especially beginners, are invited to join in. You need no musical background or ability to participate. In addition to being an incredible amount of fun, participants will learn how to express themselves through rhythm, how to dissolve stress, and make music with each other. The intention for this experience is that each person who attends will gain more confidence in their drumming abilities, a sense of how to use rhythm to positively affect how they feel, and feeling fully rejuvenated. Not to mention that they’ll likely make a few new friends and simply have fun.”

McKotch will provide a large selection of authentic African drums called “djembes,” as well as hand percussion for participants to use during the Rhythmic Explorations class. Additional details about drum studies with T.R. McKotch can be found at his website www.DrumLessonsJamestown.com. The class is open to those ages 16 and up. To register for class, call 450-0072 or email trmckotch@hotmail.com.

Monthly tuition is $40, and pre-registration must be completed by Tuesday. Walk-ins will not be accepted.

Currently, McKotch is a musician, teacher and trainer who is dedicated to using the influence of musical expression, and presence to motivate people to step more fully into their lives. In his work, McKotch offers workshops in the U.S. that focus on using rhythm and drumming as vehicles for personal and musical growth. McKotch currently heads the drum and percussion department at SoundRhythms Studios and is adjunct faculty at Jamestown Community College both located in Jamestown.