From Therapy to Triumph: How a Childhood Drum Sparked an Award-Winning Business

When Gemma Brown first picked up a drum at the age of seven, it was intended as therapy to strengthen her weakened arm. Decades later, that same passion for music has turned into an award-winning business bringing joy to learning disabled children and adults across the South West.

A Musical Beginning

Gemma, who lives in the small village of Altarnun in Cornwall, was diagnosed with Erbs Palsy following complications at birth. She also has learning disabilities, is partially sighted in her right eye, and has limited use of her right arm. By the age of seven, she had already undergone multiple operations, and her parents, Ann and Stephen, introduced her to drumming as a way to build up her arm’s strength.

“She loved it and she’s not stopped drumming since,” said Ann, 59.

Turning Passion into a Business

As a teenager, Gemma attended the West of England School and College for the Visually Impaired and Blind, where she achieved an O level in Music. It was during this time that Ann began considering what her daughter could do after finishing education.

“I have always loved drumming and play every night of the week,” said Gemma. “And I’ve even got a 20ft soundproofed drum studio at home.”

In 2008, during the school holidays, Gemma and Ann trialled their percussion workshops, which proved a hit. A year later, in September 2009, Rhythm Sticks was officially launched.

A Growing Impact

With Ann’s support, Gemma now runs percussion workshops across the South West, even returning to the college she attended in Exeter. She has also performed at major events, including Blue Light Day and the Royal Cornwall Show.

In 2011, she was recognised for her achievements, winning the Breakthrough UK Ltd National Independent Living Award for Disabled Entrepreneur of the Year.

Today, the mother-daughter duo have amassed enough percussion instruments for 100 people, including Cajon drums, Bia Base drums, maracas, shakers, and a full drum kit.

“Gemma runs the business,” said Ann. “It’s her baby. I am her gofer essentially and there to support in whatever is needed.”

A Family of Musicians

Music runs in the family. Ann, who conducts and plays various brass instruments, and Stephen, who plays the tuba, are both members of Launceston Town Band, where Gemma plays the cornet and trombone – despite her limited use of her right arm.

Beyond music, Gemma is an active member of the Hft respite service in North Cornwall, where she enjoys a variety of activities, including growing vegetables in the garden polytunnel.

Chasing Dreams

A dedicated fan of Dolly Parton, Gemma is proud to run her own business and see the impact her workshops have on others.

“Music is my passion and my hobby,” said Gemma. “It’s very rewarding to be able to share it, and I can see the benefit and joy the percussion workshops bring to others. I don’t let my learning disability and my physical difficulties hold me back in any way in me achieving what I want to.”

Asked if she could perform with any band, her answer was immediate:

“I’d love to be on the stage banging away at the drums with Queen,” she laughed. “That would be a dream come true.”

For Ann and Stephen, seeing Gemma’s success is nothing short of remarkable.

“It’s amazing to think that when Gemma was born, medics told me she would never walk or talk,” said Ann. “Now I can’t keep her quiet. She’s an amazing young woman and living proof that having a learning disability should never prevent you from following your dreams.”