African drumming, movement and singing can be a wonderful physical metaphor for exploring themes of team building, change and transition, and unity/diversity. It provides a vibrant and relaxing opportunity to develop creativity, enhance health and wellness, develop focus and engage in collective experience. Workshops can be tailored to suit your community, workplace or special event needs.
PULSE! Rhythm and Wellness
These workshops and facilitated talks cultivate and support positive mental, social and physical health of individuals and groups. This new project is based on Kathy’s research and thesis which examines the many links between rhythm and wellness. A full offering of workshops and events (including arts retreats in Ghana!) can be found at www.pulserhythmandwellness.ca
DRUMMING AND SINGING WITH KPANLOGO
Through singing, drumming, clapping and simple movement, participants will explore a hand drumming piece from Ghana that relaxes and grounds the body. Multiple parts are learned and added one at a time, creating an energetic texture of sound.
CONVERSATIONS IN RHYTHM
Using Gahu, a simple stick drumming piece from Ghana, participants will work on rhythms and movement, using vocal drumming and traditional instruments from Ghana. Emphasis will be on active listening and communication between parts; how they fit together and “talk” to each other, and the amazing resultant rhythms that happen when they combine.
AFRICAN GAME SONGS
Learn some children’s songs, chants and stone passing games from Ghana. Fun and challenging for all ages, these games develop and encourage rhythmic integration in body and voice. They also depend on teamwork, connecting in pairs, groups of four and circles.
RHYTHM & LANGUAGE
Learn how to use language as a base for rhythmic training, and to develop skills in improvisation, call and response, pattern layering. This workshop includes a discussion of links to curriculum topics. Ideal for teacher workshops, as well as their classes.
Performance and Teaching Residencies
INTERNATIONAL & LOCAL
Kathy has given performances and workshops in Ottawa area workplaces, festivals, schools, libraries and senior centres since 1994. Kathy frequently travels for residencies at Universities, conferences, summer intensives and community arts organizations throughout North America and Europe. Projects can be tailored to meet your needs. Contact her for more information.
