West African drumming and /or dancing provides a perfect opportunity for children and youth to express themselves in a cultural, energetic and musical experience. Djembemoves works with schools and other organisations all over Western Australia (Perth, the South West and all other regions) to give children a rewarding event where they can interact with their peers in a non-competitive environment. Our facilitators are experienced international performers and can tailor every workshop or incursion to meet your exact needs. Drumming and dancing requires no previous experience, and the children will quickly feel a sense of achievement as our experienced facilitators guide them through the program.

The event can be of only drumming or dancing, or a combination of both. All the activities are energising and fun, and will be tailored to meet the target age group. You can expect that the children will experience some or all of the following:

• interaction
• playing together
• immediate satisfaction and results
• initiative
• cultural awareness
• increased communication skills
• respect and concern for others
• self acceptance
• fun and enjoyment!

We can provide events and workshops for every situation, including for example:

• instruction for performance groups
• whole of school events
• classroom or assembly activities
• before or after school, and lunchtime activities

Our programs can also be tailored to satisfy the Curriculum Framework in the areas of the Arts (Arts Ideas, Arts Skills & Processes, Arts Responses and Arts in Society), and also English (writing about their experiences), Science (the physics of the the Djembe – Helmhlotz Principle, and Movement), PE (dance and fitness), and LOTE (African languages and traditional songs).

Both of our lead facilitators have travelled extensively in West Africa, and we have extensive cultural knowledge and private video, audio and photo recordings which we are willing to share.

Djembemoves will provide authentic West African drums for every participant (including teachers). All our instructors have current Working with Children Checks and Djembemoves has Public Liability insurance.

Testimonials

I was impressed with the speed with which students picked up a variety of simple and more complex rhythms on the drums with Sean and traditional African dance movements with Norma. Within two hours the students had the confidence to perform for their peers and teachers. When I spoke to the students they indicated how much they enjoyed the workshop and would have committed to extending their involvement given the opportunity. As a teacher I found the workshop both rewarding for the students involved and inspiring to see how much can be achieved in such a short space of time.
Nick Vane: English and Arts Teacher at the Nannup District High School