Saturday, February 6, 2010

Second Grade Week 4 -- "Drum Making"



One of the annual events in my program I look most forward to is the making of gourd drums in second grade. It gives a very concrete meaning to the the idea of "hands on" music. The kids can use these drums to learn about beat and rhythm, but we also use them to discuss culture and community. The best part is the kids get to take them home eventually.

Over the years we've managed to get the construction broken into two parts, the first part being the decorating of the gourd shells. Next week we will be putting on the drum heads and for that I could use a little parental assistance. Two parents per class would be great and no musical or drum making ability is required.

The next music class is on Friday. You can let your child's teacher know or you can e mail me at richardlawton@sbcglobal.net.

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