African Drum & Dance Experience

This is a 4-6 week project where children develop drumming and dance skills at their own speed in the classroom and at home from online videos. Drumming patterns are learnt using voice and body percussion. The programme involves two visits to the school by the fantastic Thomas & Adie from Ghana with the second one culminating in a joyous performance to the school with children doing things they wouldn’t have believed they were capable of at the start. This is a tried and tested transformative project - to deliver a range of music and movement outcomes BUT ALSO personal social development and global citizenship outcomes - that is very inclusive for children of all ability and confidence levels.

"The ABC African Drum & Dance Experience brought our Malawi Partnerships theme to life. Hands on training and step by step learning videos gave teachers the confidence to engage learners.

The programme made the intricate art form of African drumming accessible, without diluting its integrity. The children were highly motivated and loved working with the ABC trainers on the traditional dances and drumming.

They then went on to amaze an audience of their parents and our community as they showcased what they had learned.Staff,
Parents and children of St. Andrew’s primary would highly commend this project.

It brought beat to St Andrew’s kids feet and parents off their seats!"

Jennifer Flanagan HT. St Andrew’s Primary Airdrie

"An opportunity to have a shared experience which has bonded us as a class. It has also raised self esteem and given
pupils an increased sense of ability – this project very much had a ‘can do’ approach which worked so well with these pupils.”

Jennifer Goodall P5 teacher Niddrie Mill Primary

"Children who haven’t performed particularly well academically really shone during the rehearsals and performance.
The class loved meeting Okoe and Adie and raised the level of performance as a result. They also really enjoyed being
able to perform in the setting of the bandstand.”

Rachael Quinn P5 teacher, Fox Covert RC Primary

Raising Attainment Through Music