"On behalf of the South East Metro Language Development Centre, I just wanted to say a huge thank you for the interactive performances that you gave at our school. Our Harmony Week BIG DRUM FUN DAY was a huge success and you were an integral part of that. We were so impressed by the number of instruments that you brought to show us and the way you integrated music, song and dance. Your enthusiasm and obvious love of what you do, had us all wanting to join in and be a part of it.The school is still buzzing with excitement!"
Julie Knight, School Chaplain, SEMLDC

W O R K S H O P S

::: School & Early Learning Workshops

~Akwaaba has been performing and teaching African music in Western Australia for over 15 years. Students and teachers alike are captivated by the traditional, colourful costumes and enthusiasm to share the culture of Ghana in a positive, fun and energetic way.

The workshops and performances are suitable for K-12 and are formulated to:

• Encourage students to work together as a team
• Enhance hand-eye coordination
• Enhance creativity through dance
• Enhance listening skills
• Expose students to musical traditions from West Africa and the role music plays within the West African culture
• Release stress
• Overcome inhibitions and promote confidence
• Develop fine and gross motor skills
• Break down social, gender, age and cultural differences
• Foster left/right brain integration
  

~ Workshops

• One-off workshops: Involve the use of African drums and percussion instruments as a tool for students to connect and communicate. These workshops are not necessarily based on students’ musical abilities but are about personal expression, developing a sense of self-confidence and promoting positive class dynamics. By the end of the workshop students will have had the opportunity to drum, dance and sing together. Authentic, traditional African drums and other percussion instruments are provided for every student.
• A series of workshops: Students will be taught the basic technique of playing African drums and some traditional African rhythms which can then lead to a performance.
• Team building workshops for staff: A great way to start the term and develop a sense of unity amongst the team or as an end of term stress release.
  

~ Performances

Akwaaba’s high energy, interactive performances introduce students to the variety of instruments, songs and dance moves that are unique to West African culture. Paul begins the session with a group or solo performance then invites students and teachers to join him either in their seats or on stage.

All workshops and performances are appropriate for themed days and individual class programmes, Harmony Day/Week, end of year incursions and as part of the whole school music programme.

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