Beat for Peace is a collaborative intervention that combines the best of music education and effective school counseling practices. A truly unique convergence occurs when we bring the attitudes, skills and beliefs of a professional school counselor into a world music drum ensemble. Once the hand strikes the drum the accessibility and power of the drum becomes apparent.

    At the heart of it all, Beat for Peace is an intervention designed to help kids learn, feel confident in their abilities, and to develop the attitudes, skills and beliefs of a resilient person.  This collaboration between music educators, school counselors and world music drumming proves to be very effective in building student self-efficacy.  They become more confident, more focused and more responsible in the drum circle and in the classroom.  Academics improve.  Social skills develop.  Tolerance and respect grow.  Friends are found.

    Finally, my deepest gratitude is extended to Paul Corbiere, my colleague and co-founder of Beat for Peace. He brought drumming into my personal and professional life.  He introduced me to Will Schmid's World Music Drumming curriculum, which made it possible for a novice drummer to lead a drum ensemble.  I am grateful for the school counselors, music educators, mental health professionals, school teachers, social workers, grief therapists, community activist and students who have shared in my drumming journey.

Peace,

Mike