Suitable for :
Subject:
Session type:
KS2
Music
Museum led
Duration: 60 minutes
Class size (maximum): 30
Venue: International Slavery Museum
In traditional African societies musical instruments are an integral part of most communities. They vary not only from country to country but also from village to village. However, there are common features in
African music. It forms a big part of African life and has an important role to play in society. Songs are used for religious ceremonies, rituals, to teach, to tell stories and to mark the stages of life and death.
Guided by an experienced member of our education team, pupils investigate our handling collection of
African musical instruments. They find out what sounds the instruments make and what part of Africa they come from. Learn more about their usages, the materials they are made from in order to compare the instruments to those found in other parts of the world.
Under the guidance of the workshop leader, students are given the chance to play these incredible instruments including a variety of African drums, shakers, a balaphone and a kora. Students learn a variety of call and response rhythms and discover what they sound like when played together.
A self-led tour of the International Slavery Museum is an optional part of your visit. Gallery trails are available from the International Slavery Museum website.

Key Stage 2 – Music
 Perform, listen to, review and evaluate music across a range of historical periods, genres, styles and traditions.
 Understand and explore how music is created, produced and communicated.
Knowledge and understanding
Pupils will:
 Gain knowledge of a number of different African instruments.
 Understand the use of natural materials to make these objects.
 Gain knowledge and understanding of characteristic features of periods and societies of the past.
 Understand how instruments can be used to communicate important information.
Concepts
Pupils will be introduced to:
 The significance of instruments in
African societies.
 Use of music for different occasions
 Being able to create music using natural resources
Skills
Pupils will:
 Learn a variety of call and response rhythms.
 Improve their listening skills.
 Learn how different sounds can work together to create music.
Attitudes
Pupils will:
 Be inspired by the incredible instruments we have in our collections.
 Be enthused by the richness of
African culture.
 See the International Slavery
Museum as an enjoyable and creative place to visit