ASHEVILLE, N.C. (AP) — A week after Helen stormed the mountain city, the famous Asheville musical tradition returned Friday night in a sign of hope.
The Asheville Drum Circle held its first regular Friday night session since the powerful storm. Winds and flooding caused devastating damage to the entire mountain.
Amid the post-storm chaos, the sound of drums echoed through the streets near Pritchard Park and downtown Asheville.
Drummer Mel McDonald said he hoped the smaller-than-usual gathering would spread some cheer during these difficult times.
“This is the most important time to help people understand that it’s not over yet, that there’s something to look forward to and enjoy,” McDonald said.
He drove in from South Carolina with supplies to distribute and attended a jam session.
“We usually hold a drum circle every Friday throughout the year, but today seemed like a good day to do something positive. Come out and play the drums and tell people Have fun and give positive vibes,” he said. “Let’s put something positive out into the community. Maybe it will make people feel a little better.”
Sarah Owens was in the area Friday evening looking for water and wipes because there was still no water in the building where she lives.
“I followed the drums,” Owens said. “It’s so surprising and so uplifting. And it makes you feel like there’s hope and life beyond all of this.”
“The human spirit is so beautiful when people come together to help and encourage each other,” she added. “And that’s what this music is about. It encourages me.”
The drum circle started in 2001 with about 10 drummers and now draws hundreds of musicians and audience members in warmer climates. This circle is held in a park near popular downtown bars and restaurants.
