submitted by Ron Seidman, VP/GM, A Child’s World
Yes, when the tree falls in the woods it makes a sound, even if there is no one there to hear it. Before man ever put a percussive foot to the earth, herds of animals were making thunderous percussive sound, as they ran across the plain. Percussion or the crashing of one object against another is the oldest and most primitive of sounds and of music.
Because it is primitive it is one of the first areas of the brain to be developed. Babies love to bang things. They love a rattle toy, which is just a maraca, a primitive and basic instrument.
Even if you don’t realize it, this is introducing your child to music, rhythm, and communications.
While it was very difficult on the vocal chords to make a call prior to the invention of the telephone, ancient tribes used hollowed out logs or stretched an animal skin over a hollow log or pottery to create drums which was actually the first method of long distance calling.
Everything makes a sound. I am a percussionist and have spent my life banging on things. One doesn’t have to be an expert to understand this concept and to teach it to early learners that can meaningful and fun.
How many different sounds can you make by clapping different parts of your hand palm? The density, in various parts of the hand palm, will create a different sound.
If you clap your hand with two fingers it will make a different sound than if you clap with four fingers. Try it yourself by clapping four quick times with two fingers and then four quick times with four fingers. Repeat that for 30 to 60 seconds and I’ll bet you find it fun.
Have one group of children clap a number of times with two fingers and then stop and have another group answer back with four fingers clapping and you have created a drum circle. Do it with made up beats or to a straight four cadence.
Drum circles are when humans of any age gather to play percussive musical games and are a great activity for children and adults.
