ACTIVITIES | SINGING

World Song and Dance (the dance is optional)!

At Talking Drums we offer a number of songs and singing activities based on musical traditions from around the world, including:

• Africa
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Europe
• Pacific Asia (Japan)

The idea of singing is introduced in a humorous way that acknowledges people’s fear (!) at the same time as making them relaxed and happy to participate. Although participants are taken out of their comfort zone in the session, they are never made to feel uncomfortable… deep breaths and fast panting make for a very comical loosener.

Adaptability

Respect is given to the cultural provenance of the music and some delegates are invited to the stage to play a simple rhythm on drums whilst the remainder of the delegates are taught a body percussion rhythm. A chant or song is added to accompany the piece, and, if appropriate, a dance to perform along to the music. The pieces are highly entertaining and uplifting, with things like Japanese Karate moves accompanying a Taiko drum rhythm, an African tribal chant and dance, Egyptian harvest song and belly dance (very visual and amusing), and a Latin American samba/salsa style finale.