Nicky has been performing aspects of traditional/secular African/Caribbean folk forms of music since 1980 and has continued to develop his skills and expertise as a performer, workshop leader, facilitator, musician and music consultant nationally and internationally. Nicky has worked extensively abroad, including Zimbabwe, Jamaica, South Africa, Ethiopia and Brazil, as well as in the UK.
Renowned for his gentle approach and patience, Nicky works with pupils of all age groups and is able to motivate even the quietest of participants.
Nicky has also been commissioned by BBC radio to produce, as well as compose, direct and perform on ‘Time to Move’ a radio series for schools which links specifically with dance in the National Curriculum. He also co-produced Initial Practice, an educational video and accompanying booklet focusing on African and Caribbean music and dance.
Quotes
‘’A rhythmic journey into the world of percussion’’ Elton Primary School.
Caribbean percussion workshop
History of workshop
When looking at Caribbean music, one of the most important things to realise is that its origins are from a number of different countries. Influences stem historically from the African continent, the British Isles, France, Spain and Holland. The history and geography of the Caribbean makes it an extremely interesting place culturally and musically.
Traditionally, music making, especially drumming, accompanies processions, festivals and carnivals and is present in the various celebrations of life. It also has links to shared community activities such as clearing paths, putting out fires and building bridges. Each celebration, activity and event will have a particular music attached to it.
Content
A workshop with Nicky provides an introduction to each percussive instrument used. A demonstration is followed by a practical workshop based on the different techniques for palm drumming and stick drumming associated with the Caribbean.
Nicky will show how music acts as a form of communication and unification in the Caribbean, as it does in other societies in the world, and how it can express basic human emotions such as love, hate, happiness and sorrow.
Workshops can be tailored to suit the needs of the school. Nicky can offer a Jamaican/ Caribbean perspective on issues such as friendships, bullying and anti racism. He can also link percussion into various curriculum subjects.
Ages/abilities
Year 1 and above. No prior experience required.
Numbers
A maximum of 20 participants per group.
Time needed
A minimum of one hour per workshop. Three workshops maximum in one day.
Space needed
A large cleared space is needed for Nicky’s workshops.
Equipment/facilities to be provided by the school
CD player
Map of the world/ Caribbean
A flip chart or whiteboard with pens.
Spare percussion.
Nicky will take a maximum of 15 drums with him, and a variety of hand held percussion.
School/class preparation for artist's visit
Please prepare for Nicky’s visit in advance by looking at the following topics with your students.
Geographical location of Jamaica and the Caribbean
