African Dance and Drumming workshops

Curriculum topics available: Playing Musical Instruments, Singing, Music History, Music History.

Pupils will explore Djembe drumming, with its rich history, cultural significance, and rhythmic complexity, which offers a unique opportunity for pupils to explore African music traditions, develop rhythmic skills, and foster a sense of community and collaboration.

In the African workshop focused on music, dance, and singing, participants can expect to learn about the rich cultural traditions of African music and dance, as well as the significance of these art forms in various African societies. Workshops may include hands-on activities such as learning traditional African drumming rhythms, practicing different styles of African dance, and developing vocal techniques for singing African songs.

Curriculum topics available: Autistic Spectrum, Emotional and Behavioural Disorders, General Learning Difficulties, Dyslexia Dyscalculia and Dyspraxia, Deafness, Visual Impairment, Physical and Mobility, Fully Wheelchair Accessible, Partially Wheelchair Accessible, Disabled Toilet Access, Social Skills, Raising Aspirations.

Special needs African dance and drumming sessions can be a wonderful way to explore movement, rhythm, and cultural expression in a supportive and inclusive environment. These sessions can offer a range of benefits, including promoting physical activity, coordination, social interaction, creative expression, and self-confidence.

VG Workshops have great experience in teaching and leading SEN pupils in all classroom settings.

VG African dance workshops in schools can be structured in a variety of ways depending on the year groups.

- Introduction: The workshop starts with a short introduction, the history and significance of African dance and drumming in various African cultures.

- Warm up: African dance movements and rhythms, giving students a first and experience of the energy and dynamism of African dance.

Technique Participation: Students learn basic African dance steps and drumming techniques. This hands-on experience allows students to actively engage with the art form and develop a deeper appreciation for its cultural significance.

Group Routine; Dance and rhythms choreography sequences developed into a group dance.

Reflection: After the workshop, students can engage in a reflection session where they discuss their learning experience, share their thoughts on the importance of preserving and celebrating African cultural traditions, and reflect on how these art forms connect to Black History Month.

VG African dance workshops are structured for educational purposes for schools to honor African heritage. This promotes school events such as Black History Month, Culture Awareness Days, Arts Week, and Family Learning events.

Curriculum topics available: Historical figures, Slavery.

VG African dance and drumming workshops are powerful and engaging to celebrate Black History Month in schools. These art forms have deep roots in African culture and history and can help pupils connect with the diverse heritage of Africa.

Learn about the significance of rhythm and movement in African culture, and explore the connections between music and dance in African history. It can also help pupils develop a sense of cultural pride and identity, as they learn about the resilience, creativity, and strength instilling British values.

Our Team-building activities centered around African dance and drumming can be a fun and interactive way to promote collaboration, communication, and unity among pupils in schools.

VG African Dance and Drumming workshops are team-building sessions that start with the following:

-Icebreaker: Start the session with an icebreaker activity to help students relax and get to know each other.

Introduction to African Dance and Drumming: Begin by introducing the history and significance of African dance and drumming, emphasizing their communal and celebratory nature.

Dance Instruction: Learning basic African dance movements, emphasizing the importance of synchronizing movements and working together as a team. Encourage pupils to support and encourage each other as they learn the steps.

Drumming Workshop: Learning basic drumming techniques and rhythms, emphasizing the importance of listening and playing in harmony with others. Pupils can practice drumming together to create a rhythmic and energetic atmosphere.

Group Performance: After pupils have had the opportunity to practice both dance and drumming, they can come together as a group to perform a short routine that integrates both elements.