Access ETSU partners with regional music group for event

On Feb. 24 from 3 to 4 p.m., Access ETSU held their “Inclusive Drumming” event in partnership with the Rhythmic Arts Project of Asheville (TRAP) in the D.P. Culp Student Center.

The event consisted of a follow-a-long drumming session as well as an overall lesson on rhythm, tempo and music. With Scott Middleton, director of the Rhythmic Arts Project of Asheville, leading the drum sequence, attendees were invited to pick a drum and join his lesson.

As a recruitment activity, the event was hosted to attract visitors who would be interested in applying to be BucMates or peer mentors. BucMates assist other students in academic, social and employment roles, helping them on a daily basis and always offering an extra hand.

Project Manager Melody Blevins oversaw the event and described the program a supplemental service for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Opening the doors to anyone who wanted to join, Blevins encourages BucMate recruitment and continues to do so with other many Access ETSU events.

“Our focus is they come here, they get job skills for careers they’re interested in and we prepare them for more than just entry-level positions,” Blevins said.

Striving beyond success, Blevins states that the program aims for more than approval. Assisting where it is needed, Access ETSU provides a platform and a safe space for all who want to attend.

Middleton brought the drumming event to ETSU after holding it in North Carolina since 2013. After a connection with a friend from Johnson City, he decided to bring it to ETSU. Providing djembe drums and other miscellaneous percussion instruments like claves, he gave students a general lesson and one-to-one sessions throughout the class.

“There are only so many colleges in the area that ask for a program like this,” Middleton said. “It seemed like a perfect opportunity.”

Offering opportunities for everyone, Access ETSU events are open for anyone to attend. For more information Access ETSU, visit www.etsu.edu/coe/access/.

For more information on BucMate recruitment, visit www.etsu.edu/coe/access/bucmates.php. On Rhythmic Arts Project of Asheville, visit https://traplearning.org/.