Spring 2005
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Mark Lilly, a specialist in Afro-Cuban music and dance, worked with Hamilton International Middle School students first in PE classes with Deena Docter-Richardson learning Afro-Cuban dances. He then had more in-depth residencies with students in Lary Barilleau's world music and culture classes. He also provided a residency for Ms. Emmett's special education students.
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Mr. Barilleau's classes began the unit with some historical background. Students reviewed the African musical traditions that accompanied the slave trade to Cuba and the mixture of cultures that has evolved there. They learned about socioeconomic conditions in Cuba today, and the current culture. In particular, they focused on the Congolese musical and dance traditions that continue to be passed from generation to generation. They also delved into the basic rhythms underlying these traditions: the makuta, yuka, and comparsa.
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Then students tried their hand at performance. They began with basic drum technique, focusing on the components of the three rhythms. Students took turns performing in small groups and practicing audience skills.
Each day they would review previous skills and build new ones, until students were able to perform in ensembles - with three parts being played at once. Then simple chorus singing was added to the mix - and some dance. They completed the residency with comparsa-style dancing, a type of parade dance and music common in the city of Santiago, Cuba.
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At the end of the residency, Mark Lilly performed with his group Bembe Olele at two assemblies. Students were invited to join in to show their newly learned skills.
Funding for this project was provided by:
THANK YOU!
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