Extended Hours Reflection 7

We had David the Music Man
David's shows are of approximately an hour's duration and involve the children participating in singing, dancing, clapping and playing some of the simpler instruments. In each programme David uses about twenty instruments from the following list:  Anglo Concertina, Appalachian Dulcimer, Accordion, Banjo, Bodhran, Bouzouki, Churango, Clapping Sticks, Clarinet, Darabuka, Djembe, Euphonium, Flute, Guitar, Harmonica, Harp, Kazoo, Keyboards, Mandolin, Maracas, Mbira, Peepah, Rainstick, Recorder, Saxaphone, Tambourine, Tuned Steel Drum, Tin Whistle, Trombone, Trumpet, Ukulele, Violin and of course voice.

David incorporated a lot of songs we already know but changed some of the lyrics with a rather cheeky twist, the children really responded to the good humour and light heartedness of it all. He also showed us some instruments he had made himself using a range of tools/materials from home e.g. he played the edge of a large saw using a bow and a trumpet made from a hose and funnel. The children thought it was very clever and wondered about other materials we could use to make instruments in the classroom.

In the show David talks about the instruments, how they work, their history, their culture and plays examples of their traditional music. We have looked at a range of instruments at group time which has enhanced our music knowledge and introduced us to new sounds. We are looking forward to starting music lessons with Karen every Friday morning who will also broaden our knowledge on music, instruments and cultural diversity.

Matt (Thomas’s dad) came in with his guitar one morning when he was on fruit duty. He played us several songs including ‘Old Mc Donald had a farm’ which was interactive with the children choosing the animals on the farm and ‘Wonky Donkey’. This prompted us to get our kinder guitar out and have a little play ourselves.

The rabbits are looking larger and healthier than ever and all the children are eager to have a touch. Tracey brought in a rabbit hut for Sally and the babies to have a run around in outside, Angela (student from Melbourne uni) has been impressed with the many sketches the children have drawn of the rabbits which will be displayed in the room.

Amy, Tracey and Helen 

Extended Hours Team