Students will be presented with an array of musical instruments and songs from Native and Immigrant Cultures. By listening and observing the changes in music and musical instruments through history, before colonial times to the present, from the contribution made by Native, Latino, European, and African immigrants that brought their music, songs, dances and instrumentation to their new home far away from their lands, they will have a big picture perspective on the effect of foreign influence and integration into American culture. Instruments introduced are made from natural materials. More modern designs demonstrate the evolution of history and culture through music. Before starting the workshop the artist will ask students if there is anything in their environment that they can use to make music. Their answers will be recognized and expanded upon. During the workshop students will be asked to volunteer to try out some of the instruments being presented and to feel in their hands the natural materials and sounds they create. Instruments used include turtle shells, seashells, armadillo guitar, bamboo, rattles, horns, whistles, strings, folk instruments of Africa and South America, guitar and drums, among others. All instruments demonstrate the human relationship to their environment, each other, and the natural world. When possible, they will form small groups to play simple rhythms, songs and dance from the culture being discussed. Emphasis will be made on the effects of the encounter when cultures first come together and how their music is an example of historic transformation. At the end of the presentation students will be asked to summarize their learning and review some of the instruments and materials presented.
