Week 6

African Clapping Games

Clapping Game #1

Title: No title
Performers: Rannecia and Promise
Origin: Liberia, Africa
Orchestration: Clapping & Vocals

Clapping Game #2

Title: Oh Mama
Performers: Felicia & Victoria, Promise & Jackerline, Temoh & Princess
Origin: Liberia, Africa
Orchestration: Clapping & Vocals

Clapping Game #3

Title: Meter Competition
Performers: Princess & Temoh
Origin: Liberia, Africa
Orchestration: Clapping & Vocals


This week, in the Lew & Campbell reading, it spoke about the musical play of children.  These games or rhymes are ways for children to experience music without even realizing it.  Children become exposed to melodies, rhythms, different meters, etc.  This becomes an educational tool that enhances a child's musical ability.  As the authors state, "Play has been described as a "cause and effect" of a particular culture with- in which children are raised." (Campbell & Lew, p. 58)  I feel that when children are around other children and "things" are being done such as playing games, sports, singing, or even dancing that the other children around want to become involved.

In this video, you can see how enthusiastic these children are about participating in these different clapping games and want to jump right in.  In clapping game #3, it demonstrates clapping going up in numbers and keep the beat and rhythm steady.  I can think back of how when I was a child clapping games were the thing to do on an in-day in school when it was raining or snowing.  Now, children are glued to electronic devices.  It is a breath of fresh air when you see children playing traditional clapping games or just traditional musical games.  There are also many games that have been learned by children of other countries that are played around the world.  Just ask a younger student!

Campbell, P., Shehan, L., Chooi-Then, J. (2005). Children’s natural and necessary musical play: Global contexts, local applications.  Music Educators Journal, 91(5), 57.