Rolling Stones
In the circle song, Obwisana, small stones were used to motivate students and engage them in the music classroom. The stones were a concrete music material used to help students keep in time with the song, and participate in the group singing. The use of a concrete material can also “challenge students to move from the concrete to the abstract, and students can develop ideas while working through the stages of the creative process.” (OME, 2009, p. 4). When passing the stones to your neighbour, the stone hits the ground sending vibrations to mix with the singing, thus adding to musical experience. This was an effective tool because it brought excitement and playfulness to the learning process.
The material itself is readily available outside. Stones are a simple material that can be made accessible for all students. Moreover, the use of the stones encourages students to feel the beats throughout their whole body, because they are actively moving their bodies to move their stone to their neighbour. Connecting to music theory, the movements helps reinforce the difference between beat and rhythm as students are creating and feeling it themselves.
“Through study of the arts, students learn about some of the diverse artistic practices, both traditional and contemporary, of a variety of cultures.” (OME, 2009, p. 3). The song associated with the concrete materials is from Ghana. It is natural way to introduce and and share songs from other cultures. The use of the stones is a way students can connect to the song even if it may seem far away.
Obwisana reminds me of my experience teaching in the Bahamas. Music was an integral part of the school. It was a chance for students to be active and engaged with their classmates and express themselves in ways other than the traditional literacies. The students would play hand drums in a circle. The drumming would begin with a steady beat and slowly the students would start improvising. I was able to observe them play near the end of the school year. They were able to play with confidence and excitement, and pride with their instruments.
In the future I can use natural materials as part of my music curriculum to engage students. I can show how music can be played and enjoyed in any environment without the need of standard instruments. The joy of music can be achieved with each other and everyone can participate. It when all students are actively participating that they will be able to “find in music a lifelong source of enjoyment and personal satisfaction. “ (OME, 2009, p. 16).
