LIVE VIRTUAL WORKSHOP

Our Malicounda Studio

Malicounda invites children, students, and teachers to participate in a unique live virtual music & rhythm workshops which can be customized for various age groups in elementary and secondary schools, grades K-12. Using “home-grown” instruments: buckets, sticks, plastic bowls, jars/bags of rice or beans, and spoons!
Malicounda presents live drumming, songs in four languages, rhythmic games, stories, and used an improvisation technique to stimulate children’s imaginations.
Designed for the remote learning environment, from their desk and looking at a smartboard or at a projector on the wall, children participate through body percussion, dance, or using instruments that can be found in any home.

With a little attention, we realize very quickly that rhythm is all around us. Working with the rhythm in concert with others improves productivity, focus, outcome, and joy.

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION

Primary level: 

Music and rhythm are universal languages that inspire children to explore their creativity.

Children in grades K-7 love to make music, move, and learn by engaging their entire being. Our virtual workshop focuses on fun, stories, and games allowing children to develop self-expression while learning to play with others. Participants will learn to appreciate different cultures and ways of being.

The activities are carried out using homemade tools: Using “home-grown” instruments: buckets, sticks, plastic bowls, jars/bags of rice or beans, and spoons!

This virtual yet interactive workshop rests on a foundation of rhythms to teach ensemble playing, body percussion, and music activities using instruments found in any home. The rhythms are learned using a call-and-response method. Once the children have mastered percussion, body movement is introduced.

Rhythm allows children to see their new potential and discover their own natural abilities. It increases vocabulary, enhances listening skills, and heightens concentration.

The workshop builds to improvisation activities where students are encouraged to express themselves through sound and movement. Fun and enjoyment are guaranteed!

Duration of session:

Sessions can last from 30 to 90 minutes. In addition, they can be accompanied by a percussion performance provided by professional artists. Activities are customized for various age groups and focus on participation.

Junior and secondary levels:

Music and rhythm are powerful languages that inspire and lead a student activity!

This interactive yet virtual workshop is built on a foundation of rhythms, body percussion, improvisation, movement, and rhythm activities. The rhythms are learned orally, using call and response. The activities are carried out using homemade tools: Using “home-grown” instruments: buckets, sticks, plastic bowls, jars/bags of rice or beans, and spoons!

Our middle and secondary workshops provide a greater focus on team-building and communication skills as well as leadership training for all student participants. Students will develop connections, empathy, and a sense of purpose and inner strength. A multicultural approach is also part of Malicounda’s goal of letting the students discover and experience instruments from several countries around the world.

Through creating and performing their own rhythms, students can continue to develop skills and knowledge that enhance the important development of self-image and social relationships. Cooperation and collaboration are emphasized in this age group, fostering positive interactions with others, and enhanced self-esteem.

The workshop ends with improvised activities that stimulate creativity: an established rhythm is a lead wire for the students to express themselves through movement and experience this beautiful and ancient art form. Fun and enjoyment are guaranteed!

LIVE VIRTUAL ASSEMBLY SHOW

Conducted in French, English or Spanish

For primary, junior, and secondary levels

This virtual and interactive performance with one professional musician and a co-host will present percussions, songs, dance, and an introduction of musical instruments from around the world. A study guide and a short video will be included.

Our goal is to present the power and beauty of rhythm by sharing this art form with children, teachers, and the community, providing a multicultural experience and opening their minds to the world. We hope to inspire the creative nature of children and teachers alike.

ASSEMBLY DESCRIPTION

Description of the performance:

Some aspects of the performance are interactive; we will invite children and teachers to join us through movement and body percussion. As well as, using “home-grown” instruments: buckets, sticks, plastic bowls, jars/bags of rice or beans, and spoons students will have an opportunity to make music together.

    • Time:
    • 50 minutes for grade 4 to secondary levels
    • 40 minutes for kindergarten to grade 3. 
    • Songs in four languages: Interactive clapping to help the audience learn rhythm.
    • Dance improvisation
    • Short video: Children’s performance. Amazing talent will be showcased!
    • Study guide: Musical instruments from different countries around the world

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS FROM AROUND THE WORLD WILL BE INTRODUCED:

  • Kutiro-ceruba
  • Kalimba
  • Seed pod
  • Shaker
  • Claves
  • Darbouka
  • Djembe
  • Dunduns
  • Focus & Communication Skills

    The success of making music as a group relies on the communication skills inherent in rhythm. We must be attentive in order to maintain rhythm. Listening is the key to success.

  • RELEASE STRESS

    Playing with friends is a physical activity that stimulates the body’s energy system and helps stimulate the flow of endorphins to the brain. This process helps to oxygenate our body and to facilitate our respiratory process and, by the same token, to soothe us.

  • Creativity

    Playing an instrument helps to overcome inhibitions and fear of the unknown. Playing the drum or a bucket allows people to recognize possibilities and discover the natural talent inherent in everybody. The impact of the rhythm allows much room for creative self-expression.

  • Multiculturalism

    The beat of a wood stick, drum, or a bucket is a universal language. It can be used to overcome barriers and connect people through a common vision. Experiencing another culture can create connections and help to realize and share the depth of our own culture.

  • Enjoyment

    Making music is fun, exciting, and freeing. It is accessible to all. It is a special gift that you can share with everybody. Makin music together is a unique experience.

  • Healing

    The rhythm of the drum helps to activate the natural rhythm of the body. The beat of the drum stimulates our natural heartbeat. Connecting the two will bring harmony into our life and body, the foundation of healing.