Creative ID: 18
Auckland-wide.
My arts or creative practice (including details about my specific focus within that art form/practice and my strengths)
I run a business about learning through music. I use African-styled drum to teach rhythm for connectivity, games to teach life skills and I run group sessions for children of all ages, special needs (my main area of work).
Option 1: Fun interactive music sessions that involve the use of drums, shakers, loop pedal, didgeridoo and other instruments from around the world. The sessions are based around play, music, singing, dancing and games to help teach life skills such as team work, taking turns, sharing, listening and observing skills and other core values. Learn the rhythms of Africa in a stimulating and fun environment.
Option 2: DRUMBEAT (discovering relationships using music, belief, emotions, attitude and thought) uses rhythm to help reach at-risk youth. It teaches values that the students can transfer from the sessions into their everyday lives. DRUMBEAT explores relationship issues such as: peer pressure, bullying, dealing with emotions, identity, social responsibility and teamwork.
Option 3: African Drumming classes – learning rhythms on African drums as well as solo parts. Traditional African rhythms as well as some of my own compilations. Drums provided.
My track record of experience and success - or the track record of experience and success of the creative or artist that I will partner with
I have been running my business for over seven years now. I have worked in a number of different schools and holiday programmes over the years and have regular contracts with Idea Services and Spectrum Care. If you need referees from any of these places please let me know and I will provide you with contact details. There have been a number of achievements and successes from courses I have run: at-risk youth performing for their schools. Students who normally don't participate in activities using the music to connect with themselves and other students and peers. Different cultures and language barriers can be crossed using rhythm. Students focus on an activity for a long period of time and taking that skill out into the classroom and beyond. Drumming is a different way to lean life skills.
Describe the experience you have had working with children or young people, teaching or facilitating creative processes
I facilitate groups on a daily basis and am extremely good at thinking on my feet and reading a group to know what the best approach for success is. I have worked in the youth and disability sector for over 15 years in total. My other role is as an Operations Manager for an organisation and we run social youth groups for people with disabilities aged 16 and over. I work with all ages from kindergarten to rest homes. The theme is using music as a medium to teach life skills, to have fun and to connect with each other.
Why I want to be part of the Creatives in Schools programme and how my involvement will link to my creative practice
Music, youth and connection is my passion. I want to be part of this opportunity as I have seen the successful results time and time again and know that this works! Sharing rhythm and discovering the creative abilities of youth and giving them a healthy way to express it is my motivation and link to this programme.