Verna's favourite occupation currently is playing the agogo!

In OT week, your OTs are sharing their favourite occupations outside of work.  This is Verna's...

I have joined a samba drumming group this year. I have never learnt to play a musical instrument and I am playing “the agogo” It’s a simple percussion instrument that plays two notes.

I am just loving being part of a group of people learning and making music. It sounds so lovely when we are all playing together. It is joyous. I have always loved seeing samba bands and now I am turning into a fully fledged “Sambista”

I don’t find it easy – I have to really concentrate – the effort is exhausting. It really ties in with my interest in the brain. I know that research indicates a connection between slowing cognitive decline and learning and playing an instrument -especially percussion. This idea makes real sense with my personal experience - I can feel my brain working following instructions for rhythm changes, maintaining a rhythm with my feet and playing the music with the drumstick. The group are very supportive – I am making new friends – people from completely different walks of life that I would never usually meet. One day soon I will perform with the main performing band - Sheffield Samba Band – when I am ready. It will mean a lot to me. The picture is of the band in action.