Christina Toner

Toner's "Learning Diversity Through World Music Drumming" helps students connect to other cultures through the songs and drumming of Africa and the Caribbean. Students begin with simple rhythmic imitation and creative improvisation, advance to more complicated ensemble work, and finally create and perform their own composition at an informational concert that includes performances, interactive activities, and demonstrations. Students gain a broad-based appreciation of the cultures by supplementing their drumming with research into the heritage and tradition of the cultures. In addition, the project fosters cooperation, creativity, listening skills, focus, and respect for others.