African roots

Written by 

Carroll DeWeese

Correspondent

February is Black History Month. To inform and inspire its students, Birmingham Berkshire Middle School held an African Music Assembly. Many students do not realize it, but gospel, jazz, soul, rock ‘n' roll and many other forms of “modern” music are deeply rooted in Africa.

The school invited the Gratitude Steel Band, a full-time family group offering Island, African and gospel music, to play and educate students about African music and its contribution to the world. Students explored different regions and cultures of the continent of Africa through singing, clapping and drumming with the band in Swahili, Zulu and Yoruba songs.

Students learned about different instruments used in various regions of Africa. They also learned about the influences of African music on modern Americanculture and discovered the meaning of “Respect Our Elders Proverb” through dance and how it will better their grades and success in life.

http://www.hometownlife.com/article/20120226/NEWS02/202260371/1019/rss02