Hello, educators!
Are you ready to march to the beat of a different drum?
(ba dum PUN)
If you’ve been searching for a classroom activity that is as entertaining as it is educational, then let me introduce you to the “Global Sound Artists” course, offered by Level Up Village. Geared towards an audience of ages 4–8, “Global Sound Artists” isn’t just another rinky-dink classroom arts and crafts project; it’s an invitation to embark on a melodious journey that promises to be music to your ears—and to your curriculum goals!
Making Music and Friends Globally
First off, who can resist the charm of creating beautiful music?
Of course, you’re wondering, what exactly do you mean by beautiful….these are kindergarteners!
So, the “Global Sound Artists” course allows your students—yes, from ages 4 to 8—to dive into the science of sound by creating real musical instruments: a Japanese spinning drum, an Ecuadorian panpipe, and even a Spanish guitar from recycled materials! But here’s the secret sauce: while crafting these instruments, students also connect with global partners, sharing videos about their cultures, holidays, and personal interests. Imagine the stories, the laughter, and the cultural exchange that enriches everyone involved. It’s a harmony of learning and fun!
And if you’re thinking, ”I haven’t a musical bone in my body; how in the Wurlitzer am I going to have them make instruments…and how is that supposed to meet my ambitious curriculum goals?” Well, read on, my groupies…
Hitting the Right Notes
I can see it now: your administrators looking over the LUV course description, the room filled with a thick cloud of skepticism as they ask you through arched eyebrows, “How exactly do the activities in this virtual exchange promote the educational goal of… sustainability?”
“That’s easy,” you tell them!
The “Global Sound Artists” course beautifully aligns with two United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). First, Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. By engaging students in a gender-neutral project that emphasizes creativity and communication, we help break down gender stereotypes in arts and sciences. Plus, you’ll be encouraging the students to work with their hands, use simple tools, and decorate their creations as they see fit. They’ll be makers in the truest sense, with all the confidence and satisfaction that comes with that kind of creation.
Secondly, there’s Goal 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. As the course explains, students use recycled materials to build their instruments, which instills a mindset of sustainability and creativity from a young age. It also follows a recent trend of found object art that has entered modern music. Called “found sound,” many modern artists now incorporate these elements into their recordings and live performances, and this technique makes up a fundamental part of the genre musique concrète.
Ideally, the experience teaches your student that trash is not necessarily destined to be waste. It’s not just about making music; it’s about making a difference!
When You’ve “Made It”
As you can see, beyond the beats and the educational buzzwords, this course taps into something timeless: the joy of making something with your own hands. Whether tuning a guitar, crafting a panpipe, or spinning a drum, your little pupils engage in hands-on learning that goes beyond textbooks. They develop fine motor skills, understand scientific principles like pitch and volume, and cultivate an appreciation for music and craftsmanship early in life. Plus, in an age where digital screens are all too common, isn’t it wonderful to offer a tactile, engaging activity?
As school music programs begin to dwindle in parts of the world, you can be the reason why kids seek out those piano lessons, dabble with the plethora of digital music creation apps, or join a band!
What’s more, instrument construction, modification, maintenance, and repair are all actual skills that benefit musicians. Like car enthusiasts learn and practice similar skills to ameliorate their vehicles, most musicians know at least a moderate level of this level of work as they alter and affect their tools to match their style. I’m always sad when I see a guitar player who doesn’t know how to fix a broken string on their own, so get ‘em while they’re young!
The Circle of (bene)Fifths
By participating in the “Global Sound Artists” course, you’re not just teaching music or science; you’re nurturing global citizens, creative minds, and thoughtful learners. Students aren’t just learning how to build instruments—they’re learning how to build bridges between cultures.
Remember that they’re going to be sharing their experiences with kids abroad! The first week has them sharing their culture with their global partners by creating a video to describe favorite activities, sports, holidays, and celebrations, as well as interacting with their global partners about their videos.
And let’s not forget the joy of seeing your students’ faces light up as they pluck their first guitar string or hear the wind whistle through their handmade panpipe. These are the moments they—and you—will cherish forever. Getting these on camera will make their videos so genuine, fun, and universally enjoyable.
Tips for Success in Your Classroom
Now, it’s not going to all be fun and games—although it should be! There may be some rough patches, with kids who don’t play ball, or even some insecurity on your part the first go around. Here are a few things to consider:
- Managing Anxiety and Uncooperation: For students who might feel anxious or uncooperative, it helps to involve them in simpler tasks first. Start with them observing or assisting peers before transitioning to hands-on activities. Model activities for the class first, whenever possible, and offer to partner up with anyone who feels they need the support. Use calm, encouraging words, and celebrate small achievements to build confidence.
- For First-Time Program Implementers: Begin by familiarizing yourself thoroughly with the course materials and intended outcomes. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the Level Up Village team for insights or training. Watch a few videos on the making of these instruments so you know what the finished product is supposed to look and sound like. Start each session with a clear, engaging explanation of what the students will be doing and why it matters. This helps in maintaining interest and focus; if you’re into it, and confident, there’s no reason your students won’t be.
- Encouraging Creativity: Allow students the freedom to personalize their instruments. You’ve seen everyone from Woody Guthrie to members of Blink 182 decorate their axes with stickers proclaiming messages of peace and punk rock. This personal connection can significantly enhance engagement and enthusiasm for the project, and it’s something they can showcase to their online friends, and tie back to the first week’s prompt: describe favorite activities, sports, holidays, and celebrations.
Why Wait?
If you’re ready to turn your classroom into a global stage, where learning meets creativity and cultures converge through the universal language of music, then the “Global Sound Artists” course is your backstage pass to an unforgettable educational experience. Ready to level up your teaching game and hit some high notes? Let’s make some music—and some magical classroom moments!
Turn the volume up on education and let creativity play the leading tune!