Teambeat's African Music Programs for Schools
Hands on! Every student has a turn on the Drums!
" Salaka" : Sharing the Spirit of Africa
Teambeat offers a well-structured, informative and fun interactive performance called “Salaka” which means “Sharing” in
Ghana. The performance by an authentic African performer imparts African rhythm and culture in an entertaining and educational way. Best of all- it’s hands on!
Salaka is performed by Tuza Afutu, a Master Drummer from his village in
Ghana, who has over 8 years experience at hundreds of schools across
Australia. Tuza is a favourite with students who love his colourful, traditional African clothing, his talent, humour and energy. (Depending on the number of students Tuza will be accompanied by another top class African performer.)

Salaka is authorised by the Department of Education NSW and interrelates with various aspects of the syllabus including music, drama, physical education/dance, geography, history and HSIE.
The show introduces students to an array of traditional African instruments of all shapes and sounds, including the ‘talking drum’, djembe drum, kpanlogo drum, box drum, bells and shakers.
Traditional rhythms are performed and the purpose and context of the pieces are discussed.
Modern issues affecting children and families in developing African countries are discussed in a positive way through music, from a performer who speaks from direct experience. This is a beautiful way for students to understand their counterparts on the other side of the world. An understanding of village life and culture is gained by the students from folk tales and stories.
Every student has a turn playing the drums and other instruments and learning an African rhythm.
Salaka is a wonderful fun way to experience and learn about traditional African music and culture with a wonderful African musician.

Teambeat also provides an extensive range of Teacher’s Notes and classroom activities.
Fees
Cost per person: $3.90 plus GST
Min Cost: $546 plus GST (for less than 140 students)
Suitability: K-12
Duration: 50-55 minutes
Special offer for Kindergartens and Pre-schools!
Teambeat is experienced at sharing the rhythms of Africa to suit the needs of Kindergartens and Pre-schools. Children 2-5yrs have an immediate attraction to the drums and other instruments and love to feel the rhythm. It is an excellent way for them to release their energy in a positive way and encourages social interaction and builds confidence.
There is no minimum attendance but numbers should not exceed 70 students at one performance. This is a 50 minute interactive performance, with all students having a turn on the drums. A great way to involve and engage children from 2-5 years!
The cost for each program is $350.00 plus GST per performance. Enquire now
Workshops
Teambeat offers African Rhythm Workshops focusing on African Drumming, Dancing and Singing. These can be tailored to suit your needs, from a one-off session, an intensive camp (for example as part of your Music Camp) or a weekly program of 6-8 weeks.
Students are introduced to basic drumming techniques, how to get the best sounds from the drum, African rhythms with their various parts, bell and shaker patterns, as well as accompanying songs and dances.
Teambeat can assist the students to work towards a performance at the end of the program! Enquire now
HSC Stress Buster
The drum circle is a brilliant way for your final year students to release some steam and relate to one another as a team in a non-competitive way. Drumming stimulates the immune system and enhances creative thinking, requiring both halves of the brain to work simultaneously and in balance.
With a drum for everyone, guided by Teambeat’s Master Drummers and talented musicians, your students will be making music together and better able to cope with a stressful HSC year. Enquire now
African Classroom Resources Box
An excellent tool that can be used as a follow up from a performance. The resource box contains a variety of traditional instruments demonstrated during the show, including drums and hand held percussion. Also included are masks, carved figures, beads and other authentic African art and craft items to be used in conjunction with our Teacher's Notes.
The cost is $250 + GST per week, or $425 + GST per fortnight. Postage charges may be extra if not delivered at the performance.
Special instrument packages available for schools from the Teambeat shop.