Thank you for being an outstanding part of the NWAYM Conference last month! Your keynote was inspiring to all the folks in the room!”
Cate A., Director, Children’s Museum of Skagit County, NW Assoc. of Youth Museums Conference, October 2019
“Two of my sons have ADHD, and I was so impressed that they enjoyed and participated so well. “
Sedro Woolley parent, August 2009 drumming activity
“Friday evening was extraordinary, thanks to your loving understanding and skills. I saw people who never participate in anything drum with their eyes shining with happiness. There was a couple there who had lost their adult son to suicide six months ago, and they were joyful as they left the picnic. You gave us all a profound memory and we can’t thank you enough.”
NAMI/WAMI Board President, Whatcom Co. Family Picnic, August 2009
“Love all the workshops he does, he has heart and soul.”
“Loved the stories. This is the only workshop I wasn’t looking at my watch.”
“It was perfect—thank you!”
“Best workshop I’ve ever attended. Thank you.”
Focus on Children conference participants, “The Power of Relationships” workshop, 2013
“Thank you so much for everything you do for local communities. You’re an amazing musician and we appreciate your cooperation and involvement with our libraries…we are blessed!”
Lisa D., Burlington Librarian, 2011
“What a great two days we had with you here at AHEP! The kids are still bouncing around with lots of energy. We all really enjoyed our time together and the kids want to know when you will be back!! Thanks again for what you do and for the time you spent with us!”
Laurie J. C., Teacher, Anacortes Home Education Partnership, 2011
“Dear Ray, thank you so much for coming with your drums to Project PACE. We have never had anything the kids were so excited about before! They had a wonderful time and are still asking to do it again!”
Project PACE Coordinator, Sumas Elementary, 2004
“This was the best class I have ever taken, it was hands on, I learned a lot, I loved that there was no PowerPoint.”
“I appreciate your enthusiasm and refreshing outlook on the importance of music—you rock!”
“I have never enjoyed a class as much as Ray’s!”
“Thank you for such a connecting experience. Awesome!”
Rejuvenate Conference participants, 2010, “Sharing Rhythm and Drumming with Children” workshop
“I just wanted to let you know that everyone at the party LOVED the drum circle. They thought it was just great! And a wild thing to do for an anniversary. They are keeping notes for their own parties! Thank you so much for making the event so successful and memorable for us. We both had a blast.”
20-year Wedding Anniversary celebrants, 2011
“Ray, you were so wonderful! Drums are so powerful. I knew this, but had never actually seen it in action with our kids. It was AMAZING! Now I want drums at every event!”
Janice B., Migrant Graduation Specialist, LaVenture Middle School
Dear Ray, YOU were the star last night…the kids (and the parents) really enjoyed the drumming and some of them surprised me by not being afraid to talk about their lost loved ones in front of such a large circle. That meant a lot to me because they’re becoming more comfortable sharing their grief. Thanks again for last night….you were incredible with the kids!”
Joel K., TreeHouse Facilitator, June 2011
“Thank you for coming to our center last night. Everyone I talked to told me how much fun they had. You are lucky to have a passion that spreads so much joy, and we are lucky to have you.”
Skagit/Islands Head Start Family Service Specialist, 2011
When Ray was invited to attend our Management Team Meeting…it was not to be a time to discuss this collaboration but rather a time to drum. Prior to this Ray shared with us his interest in drumming and what a unique and effective approach it can be to team building. Intrigued by this idea, and wanting to “spice up” our team meetings, we asked Ray to come and facilitate a drumming circle with this management group.
In short, this experience was great! Ray was very skillful in facilitating this type of activity. His style is calm and non-threatening. He made it fun and put folks at ease. As an administrator of an early childhood program, he understands the make-up of a team of managers who are not themselves the direct instructors of children. While it stretched some individuals beyond their comfort zones, all members felt it to be fun, relaxing and a great diversion from typical business. These meetings are regularly evaluated and the following comments were offered regarding the drumming circle:
- It was a nice way to end the day. It felt like a stress reliever after some heavy topics earlier in the day. Thank you!
- I liked it – very relaxing, creative, self-expressive, no judgments, everyone was included. It was fun. Let’s do it again!
- I loved the drum circle. I found it an almost spiritual experience that was both calming and exciting. I would like to do it with other staff.
- I liked the way it involved elements of team building such as communication, taking turns, sharing, etc. I would like other staff to have this opportunity as well as do something with children as a part of curriculum.
Kim D., Associate Director, Early Childhood Opportunities NW, 2004
“I wanted to thank you once more for making our most successful Dad’s night a reality. Your generosity in not only sharing your time but also all your drums made for a memorable evening. Your enthusiasm for our efforts means so much.”
Howard S., Allen Elementary Dad’s night, 2012
“Thank you so much for being a part of our POH family. Our youth are so lucky to be inspired by your gifts!”
Leadership Team, Power of Hope, 2011
“Thank you for bringing the child out in me once again!”
“Very inspirational!”
“Thanks for sharing so much FUN!”
“It is obvious that you enjoy your work. It is your calling! Thank you.”
“I am glad I got over my ‘this is too elementary for me’ issues, and took this workshop! It more than met my expectations—I will use this as I travel between centers!”
Focus on Children conference participants, “Sharing Rhythm and Drumming with Children” workshop, 2010
“Thank you again for being SO GREAT with the kids at The TreeHouse! They loved the drumming, and it was so nice to have your peaceful and kind presence there. It was a wonderful way to end our support group for the summer. Thank you again, for being there, and for sharing your time and talents with us.”
Lisa M., TreeHouse Director, June 2009