05/22/2026
Each month, we shine a light on the incredible instructors who bring Drums Alive® to life in communities around the world. These are the passionate, dedicated individuals who transform lives through rhythm, movement, and genuine human connection.
Our instructors create spaces where people feel seen, valued, and empowered to move. They are building more than classes. They are building communities of drummers who support, encourage, and celebrate each other every step of the way.
This month, we are honored to introduce you to an instructor whose story perfectly captures the heart of what we do: creating joyful, inclusive experiences that help people become active participants in their own lives.
Meet Heidi Efird White
This month, we are excited to spotlight Heidi Efird White of Durham, North Carolina, a passionate Drums Alive instructor who is creating meaningful connections and transforming lives through rhythm, movement, and community.
Heidi has been teaching Drums Alive since December 2023, offering two standing classes per week at retirement communities, gyms, and community centers. While she is newer to the Drums Alive family, she brings years of experience teaching fitness since 2009 and dance before that, along with a deep commitment to helping others enjoy movement in a fun, playful way.
What Drew Heidi to Drums Alive
What first drew Heidi to Drums Alive was its adaptable and playful design. She was inspired by how the program can accommodate seated, standing, and very active participants, including those who are running and jumping, while keeping every session safe, fun, and engaging.
What Sets the Program Apart
Although she is early in her Drums Alive journey, Heidi already sees what makes the program stand out. She loves the improved instructor resources, including the online app and website, clear music labeling for choreography, and the annual conference with recorded options. These are tools that make learning and teaching easier, even on the go.
The Community She Serves
Heidi primarily serves adults over 55, though her classes also welcome younger participants. What she loves most about her participants is their willingness to be kids again: trying new partner and group activities, adapting choreography to their own level, and even pitching in with setup and takedown.
Her classes have a distinct sense of play and joy. Heidi brings creativity, expressive drama, and thoughtful song selection to every session, encouraging participants to interact with one another in fun and meaningful ways.
"This class is the most fun I have all week!" — A Heidi Efird White participant
The Impact Beyond the Gym
The impact Heidi sees goes far beyond physical fitness. Participants are forming friendships, laughing together, and building a community that extends outside of class. They share stories, celebrate milestones, and leave feeling energized, supported, and valued.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, Heidi is especially excited about the growth of Drums Alive in her area. She hopes more instructors will bring daytime classes to retirement communities and dreams of performance opportunities, parades, or showcases where participants can share their joy with the wider community.
Advice for New Instructors
"Start simple, with just drumsticks, a ball, and a holder. Introduce choreography slowly, use repetition, make it interactive, and let participants help with setup. Celebrate milestones, and most importantly, have fun!"
We are honored to have Heidi as part of the Drums Alive family and cannot wait to see how her classes continue to grow and inspire.
Joyful. Inclusive. Empowering. That is the Drums Alive experience through Heidi's eyes.
Know an Instructor Whose Story Should Be Shared?
We would love to spotlight the amazing work happening in your community. Nominate an instructor or share your own story by replying to this email.
Keep drumming, keep connecting, and keep making a difference.
