About the Clinician:​​​​​​​​​​​

Mary Knysh is the founder of Rhythmic Connections, an innovative company dedicated to advancing education, health, community building, and creative development through drum circles and music improvisation.  For over 40 years, she has traveled the globe inspiring people of all ages to discover healing, creativity, and human potential through the transformative power of music.

As a professional musician, recording artist, author, and educator, Mary is also a lead teacher for the international organization Music for People, a sought-after facilitator, Orff-Schulwerk clinician, and trainer who collaborates with schools, arts councils, wellness organizations, and corporations. Her dynamic programs foster creativity, community, leadership, and lifelong learning.

Endorsed by Rhythm Band Instruments, Toca Percussion, and Peripole, Mary has authored five books and produced a DVD and CD that support educators, therapists, parents, and music lovers in using improvisation as a pathway to connection and wellness. Her brand-new book, Drum Circles 101, will be released by Alfred Publishing this fall, expanding her mission to make music accessible, joyful, and transformative.

Mary continues to travel throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia offering melodic drum circles, improvisation workshops, facilitator trainings, senior wellness programs, and performances. When she’s not on the road, she enjoys time with her four children, three grandchildren and friends ─ always with music at the heart of it all.