Drum circles have recently emerged as a popular means of cross-cultural self-expression and as useful tools for creating a sense of unity among drummers and listeners alike.

Health care professionals recognize the stress reduction, energizing, and therapeutic benefits for the mind, body and soul of participants.

Performing artists Jahmes Finlayson and Tom Gill will present Heart and Soul: The Art of Facilitating Drum Circles for Special Populations at the Friends Meeting House on July 8.

This workshop is tailored to those with hand drumming or group activity experience who would like to learn how to provide effective experiences.

Finlayson is the founder and director of One Drum, a percussion-based performance ensemble, and has worked with elderly, developmentally disabled, and incarcerated individuals as well as with children and hospice patients.

His newest project is developing a drum troupe with the Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Milwaukee. Further information is available at www.onedrum.net <http://www.onedrum.net>.

Gill has shared his passion for rhythm since 1998 with hundreds of people of all ages, ethnic backgrounds, and abilities through Rhythm For Unity, which he founded. He is currently working with staff and residents of nursing homes, hospitals and health care organizations. More details area available at www.rhythmforunity.com http://www.rhythmforunity.com.

Music therapists, experienced performers, teachers, health care workers and casual drum circle participants will find the session helpful. The workshop, running from noon to 4 p.m., requires pre-registration of $50 by June 20. Friends Meeting House is located in a secluded spot at 3224 North Gordon Place, east of Humboldt.

This workshop is sponsored by the Milwaukee Public Theatre, which is handling the registration. Call 414-347-1685 for details and a map.