In this 4 weeks course, students will be guided through a hands on approach to learning the basics of rhythm. No "actual" drum is necessary for this class, just your hands! Learners will have the option of drumming on their laps, a table or desk, a small box, a book, or a surface of their choice! (with parent's discretion of course!) I will be demonstrating these rhythms using various techniques that include traditional rhythmic music theory as well as some fun word syllable combinations to create different rhythmic variations. Each week, learners will be given a "practice routine" so that they know exactly what to play when they are outside of class. 

Week one will cover the basics of hand drumming technique and the role that rhythm plays in music as a whole. We will adapt some "drum stick rudiments" (basic patterns) to play using our hands. We will also learn some fun "rhythm words" to create our own combinations of syllables and rhythms

In week two, we will learn about traditional rhythmic music theory and how it relates to what we have learned so far. We will also learn about how to use a "metronome" to help us keep a steady "tempo" and to track our progress of how fast we can drum! 

In week three, we will discuss the basics of composition and improvisation as it relates to rhythm. Learners will get a chance to create some of their very own rhythmic compositions and improvisations based on the material we have learned so far.

Week four will expand on the rhythms we have learned so far and also explore how rhythm gets treated in different styles of music and in other areas of the world. Learners will be given listening examples and are encouraged to seek out and discover more music from the styles that they enjoy the most.