Join Ky in jamming to the beat

With the sea breeze in his hair and a smile on his face, Ky Lovell shares his love of music with the community every Thursday during the Redcliffe Peninsula Drum Circle and Jammalong at the Suttons Beach Rotunda.

He started the free sessions in March 2023 in a bid to bring people of all abilities together, while fostering a passion for music and creativity.

The Redcliffe Peninsula Drum Circle and Jammalong is held from 10.30-11.30am with 20-30 people attending each week.

Ky supplies the instruments and his high-energy vibe and love of music. Participants can bring their own instruments if they wish.

Ky’s mother Tee, who supports him in the venture along with Danielle Hannah, says Ky chooses the music and leads the sessions.

“Really, it’s a jamming space where people can get together and play music together. You’re essentially jamming along to the playlist,” she explains.

“Everyone feels very welcome. It’s an inclusive space for everyone. People might be walking past and join in as well.

“The way Danielle explains it … she describes it as like a therapy session. You’re right by the sea, which is beautiful, and music is like another language … people who may not have any verbal (communication) at all, it’s a way that everyone’s communicating with each other and connecting.”

Ky’s infectious energy and love for music make every session engaging, dynamic, and inclusive.

“Whether you're a seasoned musician or have never played an instrument before, everyone is welcome. Bring your own drum or percussion instrument or use one of our spares,” Tee says.

“Drumming is known to boost mood, reduce stress, improve focus, and bring people together in a shared creative experience. At Jammalong, there’s no pressure, no performance – just pure joy, rhythm, and connection.

“For Ky, music is his life. It’s everything. He has perfect pitch and that’s the way he communicates with the world.

“He is an inclusivity consultant and he has been for Big Sound for the past couple of years. He’s been involved with other festivals as well.

“He wants this to be something that he grows into jamming spaces at festivals and stuff like that … an inclusive space where people can just hang out, grab some instruments and jam together.”

Tee is proud of the way Ky leads the sessions, bringing the community together and breaking down barriers for people with a disability.

“This is changing the perception of people with disability in the community. People with disability are constantly led by others and they’re going to services. It’s putting the power back into the hands of people with lived experience.”

People wanting to join in the Redcliffe Peninsula Drum Circle and Jammalong each Thursday can just turn up. There’s no need to register or book.

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