Thunderstorm - Introducing the Drums
Why This Lesson is Important:
This engaging activity introduces students to drumming while exploring the concept of a thunderstorm. Through this game, students learn to create various sounds, play at different intensity levels, and start and stop on cue. These skills are essential for developing musicality and self-regulation.
As students interact with the drums, they gain experience in hitting the drum correctly and understanding the different sounds produced by various surfaces. They also practice starting and stopping at different sound levels, which fosters control and awareness.
By musically navigating through the weather cycle, students learn about change and transitions. They discover that just because it is currently heavy rain doesn’t mean it will always be that way—this can be a valuable life lesson about resilience and patience.
This exercise helps students orient themselves to various levels of intensity. Enacting these intensities in a safe environment allows them to accept and enjoy these experiences, particularly those who may have fears related to thunder and lightning.
Considerations for Sensitivity: Some children may be more sensitive to loud noises due to their emotional state. Engaging in full-bodied activities can help reduce fear-based sensitivity. Providing ear protection or encouraging them to cover their ears can also be beneficial for those who need it.
The thunderstorm activity can be performed using bucket drums, hand drums, shakers, or sticks, making it versatile and accessible for all students.
Musical Objectives:
This lesson encourages students to musically and energetically move through increasing intensity followed by relaxation. The challenge of quickly modulating between different levels of intensity helps improve their focus and listening skills.
Directions for the Activity:
Begin with rumbles on the various surfaces of the drum. Extend this activity to help students tire a bit; this will improve their responsiveness to stop signals.
- Sunny - "It was a sunny day."
- Light Winds - "And then light winds started blowing."
- "Sticks Ready" - Stop.
- Heavy Winds - "The winds got heavier and stronger."
- A Few Raindrops - "A few raindrops started to fall."
- Light Rain - "And then there was a light rain."
- Medium Rain - "The rain got heavier."
- Heavy Rain - "And heavier."
- Lightning - "Lightning."
- Thunder - "And then there was (dramatic pause) THUNDER."
- Thunder - "Thunder."
- Lightning - "Lightning."
- Heavy Rain - "Heavy rain."
- Light Rain - "Light rain."
- Heavy Winds - "Heavy winds."
- Light Winds - "Light winds."
- Rainbow - "What can happen in a storm after the rain passes? A rainbow!"
- What does the rain help to grow? - (Use hands to show plants growing)
Extensions:
Performance This game can be used part of a performance.