RHYTHMTWISTERS
offers students a multicultural and multi-ethnic
introduction to music. The method emphasizes hands-on, participatory learning,
primarily through the use of percussion instruments. The core aspects
of musical expression, which the RHYTHMTWISTERS Program teaches, include
listening, rhythm, ensemble, dynamics, cooperation, and respect for others.
Brightly colored percussion tubes called Boomwhackers are the primary
training tools. Percussion instruments provide a natural and accessible
vocabulary for children as well as adults. Instruments and rhythmic language
are relevant to all musical experiences as teaching tools, expressive
outlets, and accompaniment.
The RHYTHMTWISTERS program offers:
Basic Percussion Package, Choir, Drum Circle, Musical
Theater, Piano and Guitar and Drum and Voice Clinics, Music Theory, Teacher
Concerts.
The RHYTHMTWISTERS program can also benefit schools through curriculum
tie-ins include: Art, Geography, Thinking and Focus Skills, Math, Physical
Coordination/Dancing, Conceptual Thinking.
READ
AN EXCERPT:
HANDS-ON CLASSROOM APPLICATION OF THE RHYTHMTWISTERS PROGRAM
The next exercise is called "Conversations".
Ask kids what a conversation is. Have a conversation about conversations.
"What is a conversation exactly? Do people have the same kinds of
conversations? When you are out on the field or hard top is everyone speaking
to each other in the same way? What are some of the differences and what
are some of the similarities?" The children can either raise their
hands or you can have a conversation with them if they are responding
in a way that you feel is appropriate.
"Okay. So we can have happy conversations and angry conversations.
We can talk about new toys with our friends and we can be pretty excited
about things. And then there are other times when we just shrug our shoulders
and don’t really talk about anything. There are so many ways to communicate
with one another. I want two volunteers now to come into the circle and
have a conversation with one another. Please do this standing up. I want
the rest of you to figure out what their conversation is about. There
is one rule, though. NO TALKING. How are they going to have a conversation
without talking? They are going to use their Boomwhackers. Let’s
listen carefully and see if we can get the idea. Are they communicating
something happy? Something sad? Are they angry with one another?