Year 7 African Drumming Incursion

Our Year 7 students have been exploring world music this term and were fortunate to experience an African drumming incursion led by the Asanti Dance Theatre, a Melbourne-based traditional and contemporary African performance company.

On June 2nd and 3rd, we welcomed Artistic Director Appiah Annan and performer Ronald 'Yoga' Mensah, who showcased music and dance from Ghana, West Africa. Annan and Yoga delivered an unforgettable experience of West African music and culture, playing the kora (a string instrument), dundun (a bass drum), and djembes. Students were also mesmerised by the acrobatic tricks performed by Yoga, with some of our Year 7s happily assisting in the performance!

The main event was the African drum circle, where each student played their own djembe, creating a rich tapestry of polyrhythms that echoed through Sharman Hall. Students engaged in call and response and performed ostinatos together. It was wonderful to see our students apply their knowledge of West African musical features and actively participate in listening, composing, and performing.

Written by: Keishel Lee, Classroom Music Teacher

Student Experience: 

In Week 7, Year 7 students were invited to participate in an amazing African Music Incursion. It began with the two teachers playing a few wonderful and traditional songs as everyone was getting settled in. Soon after, the students watched in amazement as incredible stunts, such as balancing a chair upside down on your head, were performed by the presenters. Finally, the teachers taught the pupils how to play a djembe and explored many different rhythms and sounds.

When playing on the Djembe, I was asked to share a rhythm for others to imitate and I really enjoyed this as it got me more involved in what was happening. Many students also got the chance to engage in what was going on by sharing something or coming up to help the presenters.

This incursion was an astounding experience for all Year 7s.

Written by: Meera Rai, 7G1