Big Beat offer exciting junk percussion workshops for schools and other youth organisations. The workshops are devised and led by members of the internationally renowned Big Beat, and focus on developing creativity, self-esteem, teamwork and performance skills.
Eye opening!! Money well spent!
Royal Shakespeare Company - Fifteen Minute Theatre Project
Absolutely fantastic!!
The pupils loved every second.
John Butcher Primary School Headmaster
Key elements explored within the workshops include, multi-cultural rhythms, music from recycled junk, how sounds are created and composition. We provide a multi-coloured array of instruments made from gas pipes, plastic barrels, dustbins, shopping trolleys, metal bins, wooden and metal chimes, everything in fact - including the kitchen sink! By the end of the session we will have created an unusual, unforgettable orchestra ready to perform the finest junk funk!
BBC Education have worked with renowned Big Beat on two series of Music File
exploring the potential of the many curriculum links incorporated in the workshops. (Copies of this are available on request)
Fresh, innovative, captivating. The workshops engaged pupils and staff alike.
Rupert Brown Music Teacher
Workshop format
Our workshops are highly flexible and can be tailored to meet your needs. The standard format is as follows:
3 x groups in one day
max. 35 per group (group size ideally 25 but we can accommodate group sizes most appropriate to your needs)
workshop duration - 1 hour / 1 1/2 hours per group
Final celebratory performance - 15 mins approx.
Age range - 7 years upwards
Things to bear in mind
The workshops are energetic, fun and very noisy.
When planning your sessions please consider space, who is within hearing distance of the workshop and if any children may be disturbed by very loud noises (It's loud!)
If you are planning to continue with junk music after the workshop we can also provide you with a set of basic junk instruments.
If the weather allows it is possible to work outside.
It is expected that the class teachers / youth workers will be present throughout the workshop.
[Your] input into the musical development and interest of children in the area and knowledge of composition and performance within different music styles of music was greatly appreciated. The unique contribution that you made to the to the week was enjoyed by all. I am pleased to say that you . . provided access for ALL children into the area of music making - no expense necessary!! Live performance have certainly enhanced the children's musical development and intrigue and helped to promote music throughout the school.
Rachel Jacob (Music Coordinator), Dundonald First School, Wimbledon
Junk percussion workshops provide opportunities to enhance and develop many areas of the curriculum
Big Beat can also supply Samba music workshops which bring the infectious carnival rhythms of Brazil to your school / youth group and will again focus strongly upon the development and encouragement of musical creativity, expression and teamwork skills.
If you have any further enquiries about workshops please do not hesitate to telephone us on 07779 595008 / 01822 834339
I just wanted to tell you how much everyone appreciated the workshop. [The facilitators] managed the children brilliantly and everyone is still buzzing from the experience. Most of the kids had a smile on their faces all day long and now they can't wait to form their own junk band. They left us with a fantastic memory that will stay with us all for a very long time.
Richard Stone The British School, Wotton-Under-Edge