African Drumming Workshop

AFRICAN DRUMMING WORKSHOP – Years 1 - 5

We had a fantastic day on Thursday learning how to play the African drums (“Djembe”). We learnt that the “Djembe” come from Ghana. The drums are made from wood from the “Djem” tree and goat skin (goats are called “Be” in Ghana) hence the name “Djembe”. The children learnt how to play loudly and quietly; how to play rhythm patterns including silences and they learnt to sing two African songs “Fun Mje Alafia” and “Kye kye kule”. The younger children thoroughly enjoyed making African animal sounds on their Djembe, culminating in a loud “ROAR”, while the older children played name rhythms and rhythms of their favourite food. The day ended with a short concert during which the children performed the skills they had learnt during the day.

An enjoyable day was had by everyone – especially Mrs Dunkley!!!!