Off Beats find their rhythm

If you tap along with music, you can play a percussion instrument.

“You don’t necessarily have to have a musical gift or skill,” says Karen McMahon, the Coordinator at the Coolum Community Centre.

“Learning a percussion instrument is a way for anyone to learn.”

Karen says she loves rhythm, which is very expressive and meditative.

“I love to play with people; percussion instruments lend themselves to anyone joining in and having fun. I love seeing the look on a person’s face when they are in the zone. Creating music together is such a fantastic way of bonding with other people.”

Karen grew up with a musical family and has studied at the Conservatorium of Music in Brisbane and then at the University of Queensland, majoring in piano. 

She taught music for 16 years and now runs a weekly marimba and drumming session at the Community Centre. The novice group members have dubbed themselves the Off Beats and had their debut public performance at the Coolum Celebration Day festivities in August.

“I believe any form of the arts is an excellent way of connecting people to a community,” says Karen.

“I am all about connecting people together in whatever form that may take, and music is such a great way to do it. People having fun and achieving new skills, learning to create their own music, increasing their self confidence and meeting new friends - these take away the loneliness faced by some people.”

The Off Beats meet on Tuesday mornings from 9am-10.30am. The cost is $5. Newcomers are welcome, as the sessions involve learning new pieces each week, as well as reviewing previous ones. Participants are also encouraged to learn on both the marimba and the djembe drums, which are available at the centre.

An African drumming group also meets on Thursdays from 6pm-8.30pm. Cost is $15 and includes notes, use of drums, tea and biscuits.

For more information contact Coolum Community Centre on 5471 6655.

Photo: The Off Beats performed at the Coolum Celebration Day in August.