(above) The students were split into two groups. Half of the class worked with Yaya to learn a short sequence of African dance moves, while the other half learned a beat on the djembe. After the lesson, the dancers showcased their learning while the drummers kept the beat. The drumming/dance activity inspired the students to listen, learn, communicate, smile, laugh, dance, and play.
A Day of Drumming and Dance
Warren Township Schools
Woodland elementary school students experienced an immersive musical and movement activity with Adam Issadore, the founder and owner of Path To Rhythm.
Principal Jeffrey Heaney was very impressed by the program. “The Path to Rhythm Assembly was a great time for students and staff. Students were fully engaged in dancing and were immersed in playing a new instrument. It was great to see the students having so much fun together as they made great memories and celebrated a sense of community through dance and music!”
The Path to Rhythm program was organized by the Woodland Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization.
(above) The 60-minute program included a brief description of African culture, a drumming demonstration from Issadore and Yaya, a description of the African Djembe (hand drum), a dance lesson choreographed by Yaya, and the opportunity to drum with Issadore.
(above) Path to Rhythm provides educational and interactive group drumming and dance programs in schools and other organizations. Issadore and his assistant, Mr. Yaya, met with all Woodland students by grade level for one-hour sessions on Tuesday, February 2, 2023.
