Students learn music of another culture and compare the performance practices with that culture and Western Music.

Procedure

Students learn an African song with simple side-to-side, shift-of-weight motion
Students learn all voice parts, incorporating the motion in the learning process
Students research/discuss/watch video on the oral tradition of African music, and point out role of movement in singing
Teacher emphasizes that this music should not be sung in concert formation, but always with movement
Students learn that music should be sung with percussion accompaniment
Students compare the performance practices of Western art music with African choral music. They refer to venue and occasion, use of notation, incorporation of movement, and role of leader.

Standards Code

PR6.1.E.8 Demonstrate attention to technical accuracy and expressive qualities in prepared and/or improvised performances

Suggested Assessment

Students perform this song authentically with movement
Students list several differences between African and Western performance practices

Enduring Understanding

The effectiveness of a performance is based on criteria that vary across time, place and cultures.

Essential Question

How does a musician convey artistry in a public performance?

Notes/Resources/Accommodations

Kenya Melodies, Robert Hugh
Kenyan Welcome Songs, Tim Gregory
Three South African Folk Songs, Henry Leck
One World, Many Voices - Folk Songs of Planet Earth, Konnie Saliba
Planet Musician, Julie Lyon Lieberman

Additional Instructional Ideas

Study songs, games and dances related to other cultures
Research a cultural performance practice and apply it to repertoire to enhance performance authenticity