Mike McElya (workshop leader): ‘I grew up in Michigan with a theatre background: my degree in theatre directing is from Columbia College in Chicago. It was there that I fell in love with the djembe. Later I moved to England and in 1994 set up the Sunshine Drumming Company. I have worked with and inspired hundreds of different school groups, prisoners, kids at risk, as well as corporate team building for small and big business.’

Russ Stanley (musical director): ‘ I’ve been a performing musician for over 30 years and my instruments include violin, mandolin, guitar, percussion and bouzouki. As an Equity member I’ve had many jobs ranging from touring with a jive swing street theatre band to clowning in Hungary.’

Geoffrey Stow (musician): ‘ A long time ago, I did playing saucepans. I had drumming lessons ... when I was at Avalon school, I played drums there. I first played the djembes at Glastonbury festival. I’m an artist ... I do photography, cooking, computer, gardening... and dance.’

Jane Harwood (project manager / musician):  ‘I’ve taught for the Wiltshire Music Service and run projects for Youth Music; I’m a mentor for the South West Music School and a community music trainer and consultant. I’ve worked a lot with the learning disabled community and specialise in storytelling, personal narratives and inclusive communication. I play in two bands as well – lots of fun.’

Sometimes Count Me In extends the team to include ‘peer mentors’ who help us make decisions, and support participants, whilst learning music leading skills. Robert L and Stephen H helped us deliver two years of exciting workshops for the ArtsXchange project.