Different Drummer: One Man's Music and Its Impact on ADD, Anxiety, and Autism

by Jeff Strong

Percussionist and researcher Jeff Strong embarks on a three-decade journey into the power of musical rhythm. Different Drummer chronicles his path as he navigates ancient drumming practices, conducts clinical research, and develops the music that establishes him as a pioneer in the world of auditory brain stimulation.

Beginning with his own struggles with ADHD, Jeff abandons a successful music career and doggedly searches for ways to use musical rhythm to positively impact brain function and behavior. Jeff meticulously documents the development of his therapy and it’s supporting technology as he drums for people with a variety of challenges including:

• Aggressive behavior
• Anxiety
• Attention/focus/hyperactivity
• Behavioral issues
• Cognitive issues
• Language/communication
• Mood issues
• Self-stimulatory behaviors
• Sensory processing
• Sleep
• Social interaction
• Tic behavior

Jeff’s inquisitive mind and careful research reveal how fast, complex drumming can offer long-term benefits for children and adults with neurological disorders. If you have ever wondered why the drum holds a prominent role in cultures around the world or why music can influence the brain and behavior, this book offers a compelling look at the life-changing and therapeutic tool of music.

300 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 20, 2015

Reviews

[Steve Stanley · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars

Interesting, but not what I expected.

I was curious about this book after reading Strong’s blog post about drums and attention: https://www.stronginstitute.com/explo.... However, the book didn’t offer much more information about this connection than the blog post.

I was primarily interested in how playing drums affects the brain, but this wasn’t that type of book. I’ve found other resources that show the positive effects of drums on the mind and body (https://drummagazine.com/how-many-cal... https://www.drumeo.com/beat/8-health-... https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases...).

Still, it was fascinating how Strong documented his experience and research to show that music—his drumming, in this case—calms the mind.

[Janine · Rating 5 out of 5]

The neurological benefits of Jeff Strong’s research is intriguing. His findings and work in the schools gives hope. I put his work to test. His ‘Focused Attention’ track worked. There was a noticeable change in my productivity. The second time I listened to it, I could literally feel tension draining from my head. I am a Special Education teacher. I have a few favorite tracks of Jeff Strong’s works that I like to use when a student is agitated, experiencing anxiety or is struggling to focus. Everyone is individual but Jeff Strong’s extensive research outlined in this book, gives hope that he might have a sound track that could make a difference for you.