Exploring African Music: Shosholoza

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Exploring African Music: Shosholoza

What do you already know about African instruments?

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson you will be able to listen to, reflect on, and identify instruments used in 'Shosholoza', tap its rhythm, add instruments, and perform as a group.

What Is African Music?

African music is known for its rhythms, energy, and wide variety of instruments. It is often performed together and tells stories.

Meet the Song: Shosholoza

'Shosholoza' is a traditional South African song, sung by workers to keep spirits high. It means 'go forward' and has joyful rhythms.

African Instruments in Shosholoza

Common African instruments include drums, shakers, and bells. Listen carefully to hear them in the song.

Listen and Reflect

Let’s listen to 'Shosholoza'. As you listen, try to spot the instruments. What do you notice about the rhythm and sound?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aFlQS4k3wo&list=RD2aFlQS4k3wo&start_radio=1

Identifying Instruments

Drums

Shakers and Bells

Maracas and bells add layers to the rhythm. Can you hear them in the song?

Look and listen for hand drums, commonly used for the beat in African music.

Tap the Rhythm

Now, let’s tap the beat together with our hands. Feel the song’s pulse. Can you keep time with the music?

Add Your Instruments

Bring out classroom instruments. Try adding shakers, bells, or drums. Listen to how everyone’s part fits together.

Perform Together!

Reflection

What did you enjoy most about learning 'Shosholoza'? Which instrument did you like best and why?

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.