Musical Ears | Music Exploration and Appreciation

Musical Ears aims to introduce kids to the joy of music! Through sonic discovery, they will learn fundamental musical concepts such as harmony, rhythm, ear training, and melody while being introduced to music culture and history. Our students will learn to appreciate music at an early age and enjoy its many benefits (artistic, educational, personal, and social) without the frustration of private music lessons. We learn in an interactive play-based group setting. 

Our mission is to cultivate musicianship, arts, and culture in our community starting with our kids.

This is not a series where students master a specific instrument. The program is a progressive series where the kids learn the introductory concepts, listen to music from around the world, and also have special guest talks from some of New York City's leading artists who are also passionate educators.

Directed by GRAMMY Award Winner & Latin GRAMMY Nominated artist and composer, Mr. Gabriel Chakarji and Afterschool Collective Founder Jessica Stasi

**Week 1: Introduction to "Musical Ears"**

- Class Introduction and Icebreaker Activities

- Explanation of the Course's Objectives and Structure

**Week 2-3: Exploring Rhythms**

- Introduction to Rhythms: Clapping, Stomping, Drumming

- Basic Rhythms from Different Cultures (e.g., African, Latin)

- Rhythm Games and Activities

**Week 4-5: World Music Styles**

- Introduction to Different World Music Styles (e.g., Samba, Reggae, Bollywood)

- Listening and Appreciating Music from Various Cultures

- Dancing to World Music Styles

**Week 6-7: Singing Around the World**

- Learning Simple Songs from Different Cultures

- Vocal Techniques and Harmonies

- Singing Together as a Group

**Week 8-9: Introduction to World Instruments**

- Overview of Various World Instruments (e.g., Djembe, Sitar, Maracas)

- Building Simple Homemade Instruments

- Playing Basic Tunes on Instruments

**Week 10-11: Crafts and Instrument Building**

- Hands-On Craft Activities: Make Maracas, Rainsticks, and Other Instruments

- Decorating and Customizing Crafted Instruments

**Week 12-13: Single recorded by the Steam Lab Band!**

- Forming a band, deciding wich song to record

- Principles of recording, singing, and playing to the mic while listening to each other.

- Recording a video of the experience

**Week 14-15: Group Performance Preparation**

- Group Rehearsals for a Final Performance

- Selecting Songs, Instruments, and Dance Routines

- Preparing Costumes and Props

**Week 16: Final Performance and Celebration**

- Group Performance Showcasing the Music, Dance, and Crafts

- Class Celebration and Sharing of Experiences

- Certificates and Farewell