_Elementary School Music Residency by Paula Roberts
featured in the Artists in Schools Residency Program Roster by the Alberta Foundation for the Arts
Let
the Northwind take your students on a musical tour they’ll never
forget. Homemade rhythm instruments in hand, children will perform
music from around the world. The song “Northwind,” written by Paula
Roberts and Bill Emes provides the theme for the final performance.
Activities include:
Activities include:
- Singing - Students prepare and perform eight pieces of music from various cultures. Included in the program are songs from Africa, Korea, Jamaica, France, Israel, and Canada. Most of the compositions are folk based, and arranged to be interesting and fun to sing.
- Movement - Young students portray the wind with streamers, a few students are chosen to do our fan dance, and all students enjoy some easy dance steps to our “Canadian Content,” Cactus Swing.
- History and Geography - Origins of every song are explored, and the flight path of the “Northwind” is traced on our map. Multiculturalism in Canada, in our own city, and in our own school is discussed.
- Art - Children build a giant school family tree with leaves that represent the birthplaces of the students, their parents and grandparents. Rhythm Instruments - Each student will make a rhythm instrument and play it in the final performance.
There are three artists involved in this week long residency. Paula Roberts has designed the program and teaches all of the music and dance. She is assisted by Chris Andrew, pianist, who provides professional accompaniment and coaches some of the solo parts. Twyla Supervich, research assistant, brings biographical, historical, and geographical information to each class. She also guides the teachers in their role to help students in the creation of our homemade rhythm instruments.
The participation by the teachers is an important part of the success of this residency. A good portion of every day is devoted to rehearsal and instrument making. This work is outlined and guided by the Residency Team of Artists. Projects are then completed by the students and teachers on their own. Although there is time each day for some regular curriculum study, the school becomes totally immersed in preparation for the “big show” that caps the week!
The use of the gym and one other room, such as the music room or art room will be required for the week. Some materials for the rhythm instruments (coffee cans & pop cans) must be collected ahead of time by students and staff. All decorating materials and paper for the “family tree” will be items you have on hand. The remainder will be provided by the artists.
“A Voyage With The Wind” residency can accommodate up to approximately 350 students from Kindergarten to Grade 6.
AFA Grant Deadline: April 1; Artists and Education grant: http://www.cd.gov.ab.ca/affta/
Email Paula for more specific information such as fees and scheduling at: paula@northwindmusic.com
Email Paula for more specific information such as fees and scheduling at: paula@northwindmusic.com