Choral Caffeine: Multi-Disciplinary Multi-Culturalism

As school districts slash away at budgets like crazed pirate boarding parties, those in the arts are frequently left fighting for their professional survival in an acrid, toxic workplace.

 

Many who have successfully navigated these difficult waters have done so through creative inter-disciplinary efforts.  In her article, “New Bridges to Cross: Ideas to Stimulate Multicultural Emphasis in the Choral Classroom” (Arizona Antiphon Vol.13, No.1), Sarah Ross discusses ways to link multiculturalism with interdisciplinary studies.

 

Most multicultural music lends itself naturally to connections in other disciplines. Consider working with the art teacher to study Native American masks and other artwork. Invite an English class to read poetry from around the world (haiku, Urdu, etc.) in class or at a concert. Bring in a language expert or native instrument players. Connect to history and geography in a way that is informative and interesting to your students. Other teachers will be grateful, and the choir students will have an unbelievably well rounded view of their music.

 

Concerts can be educational for all involved. Global music experiences are a particularly interesting subject to explore in our highly connected world. Have students introduce a featured culture by inviting drama students to present a skit or ask an English class to read poetry. Coordinate a slideshow with your music depicting the people and places of another country. Feature a local Mariachi band or gospel choir.

 

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