The sound is deafening. Each Monday evening the community centre on Conduit Hill in Rye shakes as Ryebellion rehearse. Our town’s drumming group are getting ready for November’s bonfire celebrations, with over 40 drummers following the lead of musical director Robert Draper. He’s been telling the podcast about the music they play, some of which is unique to Rye: “A Sussex Bonfire is an assault on the senses: the sights, the sounds, the smells, and the drumming is becoming increasingly important to add drama.”
Founded in 2017, Ryebellion is the drumming section of the Rye & District Bonfire Society. Ruth Palmer is one of the original drummers who set up the group. She says you don’t need a musical talent to have fun: “You just follow the beat and do what you can. As you get more confident, you do more. Just give it a go.”
You can hear more from Ruth & Robert, some very loud drumming, and the stories of members of the group on this week’s podcast. Search for Ryecast wherever you get your podcasts or visit www.ryecast.org.
And if you’d like to join Ryebellion, drop into rehearsals each Monday at 7:30pm at the community centre or visit their website www.ryebellion-drummers.com.
Image Credits: Kt Bruce .