Music strikes a chord in every young person’s emotional development [1]. It sparks creative expression [2]. It also builds the kind of confidence to lead in and on all of life’s stages [3]. When young people create music together, connections are forged between each young person and their full potential, their peers, and ultimately their communities.
Amani Project programs are designed for young people aged 8–14 years old, but we know adults and families have fun and learn something too! While things might feel scarier and more uncertain than ever before, we have spent years developing programs specifically to prepare young people for this moment in history. What we want most is for young people (and their families) to have the space to explore their feelings, to sing, to beat a drum, to connect, to dance. Even if those things need to happen virtually, for now. So come along with us each week through the holidays as we make music together!
We’ll be sharing a fun music-making activity from Amani Project each week until September so that you can get involved. Complete the activities to earn badges and use music-making to make change.
Activity #1: Make an Instrument
Suitable for Ages 5–10
We believe that everyone can make music.
For this activity, you will make an instrument using objects you can find around you, and experiment with rhythm. Watch Andrew Huang’s Found-Object Videos below to see how he used found objects to make beautiful music, then download the activity instructions to find out how to make your own instruments and start creating music.
Time: 1 hour (or more if you want!)
Materials/Equipment:
- Pen or pencil, piece of paper
- Amani DIY Instrument Cards
- Objects that are potential musical instruments; recyclables, bottles, branches, pieces of wood, metal, old shoes, etc.
Activity #2: The 5 elements of music
Suitable for: Ages 5–12
Music is everywhere! It’s in our bodies, in nature, and how we speak.
The elements of music are all around us. They are in every part of our life, even our body! In this activity, you will first learn about the 5 elements of music: rhythm, beats, tempos, pitch and dynamics. Then you will teach them to someone else.
Time: 1 hour (or more if you want!)
Materials/Equipment:
- Just yourself!
Activity #3: Teach the Mood Meter
Suitable for: Ages 5–12
All emotions are important (there are no “good” or “bad” emotions).
We all can learn how to express, describe, and shift our emotions. Music can help you express or shift your emotions. In this activity, you will learn about the Mood Meter and then you will teach a friend what you have learned.
Time: 1 hour (or more if you want!)
Materials/Equipment:
- Pen or pencil
- Piece of paper
- Colour version of the Mood Meter (print or digital)
Activity #4: HARMONY BREAK! Mood Meter Floor Board
Suitable for: Ages 5–65!
All emotions are important (there are no “good” or “bad” emotions).
Working as a group, recreate the Mood Meter on your floor (or in your garden), and use body language, movement or beats to express your emotions.
Time: 10 minutes
Materials/Equipment:
- Chalk, or any items that can be used to create four sections of a circle
Activity #5: Mood Shifting
Suitable for: Ages 5–15
All emotions are important (there are no “good” or “bad” emotions).
Working as a group, learn how to shift negative emotions to ones that can be more effective.
Time: 10 minutes
Materials/Equipment:
- Instrument (see Activity #1)
- Mood Meter (download here)
Activity #6: Finding Emotions with Music
Suitable for: Ages 5–15
In a group, explore empathy through listening and watching each other perform a piece of music or dance.
Time: 3–7 minutes
Materials/Equipment:
- Instrument (see Activity #1)
- Mood Meter (download here)
Activity #7: Write a CoronaKindness Song
Suitable for: Ages 5–15
Practise your songwriting and storytelling skills by composing a song to help a friend.
Time: 1 hour
Materials/Equipment:
- Pen or pencil, piece of paper
- Your found object instrument, your voice, or any other instruments you have
- (Optional) A smartphone or tablet that can capture video, social media account
Video: Hit songs of 2015 – Performed with household items | Andrew Huang
(Video may contain ads)
Get involved
If you’re interested in following our series of activities through July and August, you many also want to download and print our badges and journey card to reward your family’s progress.
References
[1] “Music Therapy and Emotional Expression: A Kaleidoscope of ….” https://www.academia.edu/35596645/Music_Therapy_and_Emotional_Expression_A_Kaleidoscope_of_Perspectives. Accessed 22 May. 2020.
[2]”(PDF) Music and trauma: The relationship between music ….” https://www.researchgate.net/publication/280003523_Music_and_trauma_The_relationship_between_music_personality_and_coping_style. Accessed 22 May. 2020.
[3]”Gifts of the Muse: Reframing the Debate about the Benefits of ….” https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/monographs/2005/RAND_MG218.pdf. Accessed 22 May. 2020.