Sing, Listen, and Play

The session began with some warm ups to get used to the space. Group members were invited to select an instrument and begin playing and creating together. A few group members added their voice to the music through singing and humming. Group members shared which instruments they were drawn to and what they appreciated about the sound. One group member reflected how different an instrument can sound when played solo versus in different combinations of instrumentation. The group discussed how each musical piece created is original, unique and special based on the instrumentation, players, tempo, etc.

The group then played an instrument swap game, players were invited to select a handheld instrument such as a maraca, ukulele, small drum or kalimba. The group would play the instrument they had, then when a player raised their hand everyone passed their instrument to the person on their right. The group continued the game so everyone got an opportunity to play each instrument.

Group members then reflected on what instruments they preferred and why. This resulted in a great discussion about the different qualities of each instrument and how one could express their emotion on each instrument. After a few more musical exercises, the group switched into listening mode as members were invited to share a song of meaning with the group. We all listened to four different pieces. The pieces of music varied in style, genre, cultural background, language and meaning. Participants shared how each piece made them feel and what they took away from each song. The group members supported one another in their emotional expression and disclosure. 

A Lovely Intro!

I was warmly welcomed by the staff, parents, and kids for our first session. The little ones were all a similar age, so they played very well together. However, this did mean that a lot of exploration and running around was very much a part of the class. I tried to keep everyone on our feet as much as possible, but also bring things back to rhythm and clapping, which the grownups were very enthusiastic about. All of the grownups were engaged and interacting with their kids musically, which bodes well for this group in the coming weeks!

Singing Bowl Wonders

Last night we had a fun, sweet class. There were three kids in the class and they seemed to need to get a lot of energy out at first, so we did Sleeping Bunnies four times, and Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes at hyper speed! Then we sang a song called, I Love My Body, about loving our bodies and our faces just as we are. There's a line where we sing, "I like the way I look when I look in the mirror," and the kids insisted on climbing up a chest of toys to look in a mirror higher up on the wall as they were singing.

Another special moment included playing the Tibetan singing bowl and listening to how long the sound/vibrations drew out for. The bowl was sitting on a wooden floor and we believe that the wood must have conducted the sound really well as the bowl rang out for the longest any of us had ever heard before! It was a really neat and magical moment for the group.

Playing Catchup!

It has been a long summer for my student at Ernestine's, and she was thrilled to get back to it! Before we could play any music she had to fill me in on all of the "drama" happening at school. What kids are fun to hang out with and which friends aren't so friendly. Then I got a break down of this students favourite pets! Including two snakes and a rat! These are some of my favourite moments in a lesson - seeing a student be so comfortable in the space with you they can be open and share, and know they have room to make mistakes and explore new skills while being supported! And we did of course review all that we had learned in the spring before summer break!

You Are a Promise

The group began with several musical games and activities to get warmed up and acquainted with the instruments. One group member shared that they play the guitar, and chose the ukulele as their main instrument. Another group member shared that they enjoy singing and using their voice. Group members laughed and connected throughout the exercises. One group shared that it required a lot of focus to play the instrument and listen to everyone else at the same time. The group then moved into two free improvisations, one with words of intent and one completely free. The words chosen included peace, calm, and happiness. One group member shared after the improvisation that it felt good to find their own groove. The group then moved into a song share where each participant was invited to select a song of meaning and share it with the group. The group listened to three songs from different group members. The pieces of music brought up different emotions for different group members. The group engaged in discussion to process emotions and support one another. The remaining songs will be played next week. 

Time for Solos!

The group this week consisted of children aged 5-11. As such, I decided to include some more challenging songs with word play, such as Corner Grocery Store, where we come up with funny rhymes together. I encouraged more participation, including rhythm stick solos and chances to sing to the group one at a time. The oldest child in the class also lead us in a movement song about a penguin that she learned from summer camp. It was a different energy this week, but certainly fun and engaging!

Back to RSF!

Last week I returned to Arise for the fall session. The group was happy to see me and to start up again. The group's energy seemed a little low at times, and I believe this was due to the return to school and transitioning in to a new routine. The children perked up when we got up on our feet for, Shake Your Sillies Out, and Down by the Station. The mother in attendance requested I sing the Bumble Bee Song, so we had fun with that tune as well and the actions that go with it.

Creeeeeaaaak

My last class at Arise was a little smaller than usual because some of the children were away at a camp for the week. It's a big class to begin with however, so there was still a lot of energy and enthusiasm! Highlights included making "creeeeeeeeeaking" sounds with the song, Shut the Door, and playing the African-inspired instrument, the ocean drum.

Party Time!

Last night was one of our most well attended classes at Arise ever! The ages of the children ranged from one to eleven, and we celebrated Toronto Caribbean Carnival (formally known as Caribana) by singing Caribbean-influenced songs, learning how to play an African instrument called the "agogo," and doing the limbo! We also enjoyed a dance party under the parachute to some fun soca music. A great celebration!

A Big Group!

Last night we had a big class of mostly school-aged children. This group was very enthusiastic about the class and there was a lot of energy! We learned some new songs in preparation for Toronto Caribbean Carnival next week, including Four White Horses and we sang some Bob Marley songs by request. The jam and parachute were a hit as always!