Numerous people showed up on the Murfreesboro square Thursday night for the second annual Community Rhythm Event.

The event was open to everyone from young to old. If you showed up drumless, you were given something to beat on. Some had tambourines, many had bongos and a few even had old pots and pans.

"It's an important freedom to peacefully gather and engage in civic life," says Ross Lester, a Murfreesboro drum instructor and group rhythm leader.

A scientific study conducted in the U.K. released earlier in 2016 explored whether general music making within community settings can enhance mental health and well-being.

"Significant improvements were found in the drumming group," this study concluded. "There were decreases in depression and increases in social resilience . . . alongside significant improvements in anxiety and mental well-being. All significant changes were maintained at 3 months follow-up."

So, the effects of group drumming can be positive and long-lasting.