Musical Games and Learning with Nikki Berry and Gary Easterbrook
This year Nikki and Gary will lead music classes for young people, and families (and people who can still think like a young person) based in the Kodály approach.
There will be sessions for older children/teenagers, and for parents and younger children. These sessions are open to all young people and their families and will cater for those with no formal music training, as well as those with advanced training. Because the approach is games based, it is fun and inclusive, while also providing challenge and motivation.
About the Kodály approach.
Through group music making, and playful games that children love, students develop musical skill, understanding and literacy. This sequential approach develops musicianship and confidence. These skills will transfer to any instrument. Kodály students become strong readers, excellent singers, with well developed aural, coordination and memory skills and a lifelong passion for music. Read more about the Kodály approach here.
Programme:
Friday night - musical games for big kids, and people who love to play. (Note if space is limited, those under twenty get first priority!)
Saturday morning:
Family class: Open to all ages, but aimed at meeting the needs of children 7 and under. Learn fun musical games to play with your children. Note, this is a family class, so children need to come with a care giver.
Big kids: Fun, challenging music games, that build skill and musical understanding. Aimed at people 10 and over.
About the Tutors
Nikki is a choir leader, arranger, composer and music educator based in Ōtautahi, where she runs several choirs, musicianship classes, and her famous 'Reclaim Your Voice' course for people who think they can't sing.
She is passionate about world music, community building and holistic education. Nikki draws on many years of teaching, along with studies in Orff Shulwerk, Estill Voice work and the Kodály approach. She teaches music one day a week at Whītau school and runs the children's programme at The Muse Community Music Trust, which also provides training for people wanting to learn the Kodály approach.
Gary Easterbrook is a professional musician with over fourty year’s experience. He plays guitar, bass and piano, arranges and accompanies choirs and singers, with the ability to support others with great skill, playfulness and sensitivity.Gary also loves photography. Check out his website.
