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All of our unique programs go far beyond a simple display of the percussion family of instruments. We draw parallels which relate music to language, history, math and science. Imaginations are tweaked and knowledge and understanding are broadened in a manner which is frequently infused with humor - definitely entertaining and educationally valid. Fun and learning go hand-in-hand. Our programs bridge all age groups and cultural backgrounds and are appropriate for any time during the year.
Our audience travels a journey through time, a journey which conjures the image of early mankind using stones, sticks, rattles and skin-covered hollow logs to accompany singing and body movement. A leap in time occurs when we use “found” instruments of today – plastic tubes of different lengths, trash bags snapped in the air, newspapers torn in time to foot stomping accompaniment. We move from the familiar to the unfamiliar with imagination, creativity and inventiveness throughout this exploration of a truly ancient language. African dance rhythms, a crackin’ Brazilian samba, jazz, rock – new sights, new sounds – some loud and spirit shaking, some soft and haunting are all experienced in this journey. Audience interaction and
hands-on opportunities abound. This program is for all ages – young children to adults.
(full trio program)
“Ring In the Season”
This delightful program contains much of the enlightening and exciting material as “Language of the Ancients,” but the final third of the program is devoted strictly to fun – Christmas and Hanukkah carols, The Nutcracker, Carol of the Bells and a whole lot more. Geared more towards a younger audience everyone will enjoy a sing-along and an impromptu, volunteer ensemble with jingle bells, tambourines and triangles – presented in a happy, non-religious celebration of the season’s holidays.
(full trio program)
“Percussion Discussion”
This program is a full school day of mini-presentations to several small groups (each limited to 35 participants) where various aspects of percussion are discussed and demonstrated. With these smaller groups this becomes a free-flowing, great hands-on experience. Topics include the ancient roots of percussion, the multi-cultural language of drums, unusual sounds and exotic instruments, and how to make simple percussion instruments. "Fun and educational for everyone."
(presented by Bob Otto)
“Workshop in Percussion”This class is custom designed to fit your needs. Topics are unlimited, but can include
making simple percussion instruments, rhythm for kids, etc., or more advanced areas such as theory, ear training and practice concepts for percussionists, artistry and playing musically. You tell us what you want – we design the class.
(presented by Bob Otto, or full trio by special arrangement)
For schools, our presentations are suitable as a September opener to enhance your students’ thirst for learning, a June closer to end the school year with a bang (so to speak), or anytime in between.
The Music Educators National Conference (MENC), the national professional music educators association, has designated March as “Music In Our Schools Month” on a national basis. Our March performance calendar always fills up very quickly. And with our popular “Ring In The Season” program the month of December also fills rapidly. Please book early for presentations during these months.
