Cynthia Steiner

Steiner's "D.R.U.M." program teaches Discipline, Respect, Unity and Musicianship, introducing the rhythmic and harmonious concepts of a drum circle to fifth and sixth graders to get them in tune with each other and themselves. Ten and eleven-year-olds learn and perform music from each continent while gaining an understanding of the relationship between the arts and sciences. Inspired by Jim Solomon's book, D.R.U.M., Steiner's program increases interest and instills a source of pride in students who formerly exhibited behaviors that communicated disengagement from school. Participation in the D.R.U.M. program has changed the attitudes of students and has inspired them to improve their math, reading and writing skills. Participants have not only built their self-confidence, but have also increased their reading comprehension, including stories told through music, read and wrote music compositions and poetry set to rhythm and performed for the public. Steiner lives in Bay Village.