Cyclic patterns

Cyclic patterns – West African Music
This unit explores the West African Djembe drumming tradition and looks at the cultural significance and place of West African drumming. The children listen to and watch a wide variety of authentic performances of West African music and dance. They learn some traditional Djembe pieces and exercises, create their own musical signals, compose a piece of cyclic music and improvise.

Note: you do not need Djembe drums in the classroom, but you will need a large number of un-tuned percussion instruments. Ideas for everyday objects to supplement your collection are included in the unit notes.

Main Focus:	Rhythm and layering sound
Prior Learning Required:	Ability to repeat simple rhythmic patterns, with a sense of pulse
Age Range:	Key Stage 2 (Year 4 upwards)
Length:	8 lessons
Teacher Guidance:	Yes
Lesson Plans:	Yes
Activities:	Rhythm games, instrumental percussion techniques, improvisation, ensemble rehearsal and performing, composition, appraisal
Resource Types:	Videos, animated audio backing tracks, multimedia presentations