South Africa: The Drum Cafe

Objective: These lessons are designed to introduce students to various African instruments and musical styles.

Lesson 1: Begin by discussing the video/audio segments on African Instruments, the Djembe, and Marimba Music. Have students describe the instruments and any facts they remember regarding sound, tone, design, what it is made of, and how it is played.

Topic For Discussion: Once the video segment has been discussed, guide learners in:

Comparing and contrasting the instruments and sounds from the video/audio segments with instruments they are familiar with. Why are they similiar? Why are they different?

Lesson 2: Begin by reminding students that each explorer’s blog and the video mention that music can bring people together. Ask students if they believe that to be true. Why or why not?

In-Class Activity: Assign a composition to the class using a variety of percussion instruments or non-traditional instruments (pots and pans, trash can lids, their feet, etc.) If using non-traditional instruments have students be creative to create different sounds.

Working in small groups or as a class, each student will create a pattern to contribute to the overall composition. The piece should be at least 2 minutes long, but the patterns may repeat until the entire ensemble wants to stop. Emphasize unity of purpose with the group.

Student Assessment: Students will demonstrate an understanding of African instruments and music styles.

Objective: This lesson is designed to help students have a thorough understanding of African instruments, and their importance socially and historically.

Lesson 1: Begin by having students discuss their reactions to the videos/audio. What did/didn’t they like about the music from the video/audio segments: African Instruments, the Djembe, and Marimba Music. Ask students if they have seen or heard any of these instruments before.

Topic for Research and Writing Assignment: Have each student research and write a report on any African instrument of their choosing. This should include its origin, what it is made of, how it is played, and if it has any cultural or religious significance.

Students should also include information on any artists (or groups) known for playing this type of instrument. Have students look for similarities in American musical instruments or styles.

Additional Topics for Discussion: Have students share any audio/video recordings they are able to find on their selected instrument.

Objective: This lesson is designed to help students have a thorough understanding of African instruments, and their importance socially and historically.

Students should also include information on any artists (or groups) known for playing this type of instrument. Have students look for similarities in American musical instruments or styles.

Additional Topics for Discussion: Have students share any audio/video recordings they are able to find on their selected instrument.

Curriculum Connections: Arts Education, English, Social Studies

These lesson plans were contributed by: Kailee Bialaszewski