Avonbourne School

As part of the planned activities for this term Avonbourne School’s Young Chamber organised a team building session for Year 7 students in conjunction with Magic Drum. The idea was for students who would benefit from this to take part in an activity which encouraged participation, communication and creativity.

The session comprised of 45 girls armed with various instruments from all around the world, all provided by Magic Drum. From drums and bells to blocks and shakers these included djembe's and Dun Duns from Africa, Congas from Cuba, Darabuka from Egypt, Timbas from Brazil and wooden frogs from Thailand!

The session began with everyone playing the instruments in a large circle the students learned how to control sounds and build up basic rhythm through various games, individuals were encouraged to stand in the centre of the drum circle and direct the group.  The interaction of the whole group produced a really good vibe and resulted in a fantastic musical finale involving all the girls putting into practice the new skills they had learnt.

The session went down really well with the girls as they were allowed to make as much noise as they liked but were taught techniques to turn the sounds into musical rhythms. They experienced team bonding through a really creative channel and shared in a positive musical experience.

The feedback from the students was really positive;

 “I have learned how to have fun with others and how to socialise, I enjoyed when they let the girls take charge, I thought this was really fun” and

“The Magic Drum staff are really kind and are really interactive with the girls”

Magic Drum is Ralph Cree & Glyn Bush, skilled workshop facilitators with a wealth of experience as teachers, professional musicians and experts in Samba and African rhythms. They provide drumming workshops and rhythm-based training for school, community and corporate clients across the South of England.  www.magicdrum.org.uk  01305 853479.

For more information on Young Chamber you can contact Gillian.bunting@dorsetbusiness.net 01202 714804.