• Home
• About Us
• Mission
• Learning
• Schools
• Employment
• Resources
• Contact

A A A

• Structure
• Diocesan Map
• Mission Statement
• Key Dates
• Site Map

 

 

 

Drumming a big hit!

 

St John Fisher Catholic School’s specialist music teacher, Lynda Burke, is enjoying teaching drumming to her students with a wonderfully exciting ensemble of African drums purchased for students at St John Fisher Catholic School, Tumbi Umbi; St Cecilia’s Catholic School, Wyong and Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic School, The Entrance. These drums will be shared by the three schools on a term by term basis.

Together with Mr Barry Shanley, Principal of St John Fisher, Lynda researched what would be required to make an exciting ensemble of African percussion.  Ultimately they decided on a full class set of djembe and two large African bass drums called djun djun.  This was complemented by other interesting instruments – agogo bells, caxixi, shekere and some seed pod wrist/ankle bands.  Late last term, music teachers from these schools attended a weekend Drumming Facilitator’s Playshop working closely with internationally known, drum circle facilitator and trainer, Arthur Hull.

“This term at St John Fisher, each class K-6 has been enjoying wonderful music lessons where we have been all carried away by the mesmerising sounds of the drums” said Lynda.  “Children become competent djembe players, they sing and say chants and everyone is keen to have a go at playing the big bass djun djun and other interesting percussion that makes up the ensemble.  Students are realising that they must work as a team to create the best music possible. They have to listen to each other and allow individuals to have opportunities to shine through with their improvisation or small group solos.  It is an exciting atmosphere and we feel so lucky to have these new instruments”

Barry Shanley commented that “drumming encourages a team effort.  It focuses the listening, musicality and performance skills of the students and it has brought a different atmosphere to the music classroom.  Boys and girls are equally successful and they are all having a great time.  The enthusiasm and competence of Mrs Burke, together with the brilliant tone of the drums provide for an exciting learning environment for all the children. ”