THE MUSIC OF WORLD WAR TWO workshop

Watching DVD clips and listening to actual radio broadcasts of the time, we try to understand what it was like to live during the war, and how important music was to the people.

This workshop is a 2-day experience, working towards a concert.

On the first day, the group experiences examples of popular music of World War Two, learning about the style of popular music at the time, and considering how and when the music would have been listened to.

Using DVD clips, we consider important events and disasters, to highlight the inspirational and cheering effect that musical experiences would have had on the people.

Children love learning to sing some of the songs from the period, and listening to recordings of famous wartime singers such as Vera Lynne.

This builds on the knowledge children already have about World War Two, or alternatively it can provide a colourful and fascinating introduction to the content of this QCA unit (just let 'Join in Music' know how you want us to fit in).

The second day is spent improving the singing and organising a concert for parents and the school, to be presented at the end of the day. We also learn to play one song on the glockenspiels / xylophones (full class set provided free by 'Join in Music').

What do pupils / parents / staff say?

• I learned that the second World War was really cruel and harsh but they needed music and dancing to keep their mind off worrying things.
• The best part of the day was performing in front of the school.
• I enjoyed singing the songs and waving the Union Jack flags at the end with 'We'll Meet Again'.
• I enjoyed the fact that the songs were cheerful but we were still learning at the same time.
• I enjoyed the fact that all the children had tried hard throughout the day and gave the impression that they had all enjoyed themselves.
• The best part of the event was seeing the smiles on the children's faces throughout the concert.

Format: 2-day workshop for a group of up to 90 pupils, with a CONCERT at the end of the second day

• Aimed at KS2
• Supports QCA Units: History 9, Music 1, 8, 15, 20
• Up to 90 pupils working together for both days
• Day 1 needs an interactive whiteboard / DVD player, day 2 needs a performance space e.g. school hall.
• 1 teacher required per 30 pupils, plus any extra staff necessary to support the involvement of specific pupils
• All resources provided FREE including xylophones / glockenspiels, DVDs, flags for the concert.

How do I book?

e-mail Emma Sykes at joininmusic@hotmail.co.uk OR

phone on 07816 837583 OR

print and post the booking form, to 29 Oakdale Close, Halifax, HX3 5RW

How much does it cost?

The 2-day workshop costs ?400, plus ?1 for each child (this includes a ?50 deposit).

There are no expenses or other costs to add, and all equipment is provided free of charge.

However, if payment is received in full on the day of the workshop or before, up to 30 children can attend for FREE.

A second workshop, booked by the same school or group for the same term, will attract a discount of ?50 i.e. ?200 plus ?1 per child (1-day workshop), ?350 plus ?1 per child (2-day workshop).

Organisation of the day(s)

Actual timings will be adjusted to fit in with your normal school day. The concert on the second day will be approx 30 minutes before the end of the school day.

Please contact Join in Music with any questions or other adaptations you would like to make.

Flexibility

If you have groups with specific requirements (e.g. Gifted and Talented, Special Needs, longer projects or Holiday Clubs), please contact Emma to discuss these. All of the workshops listed are given in outline only, so that they can be adapted as much as necessary for the audience and time available. Alternative ideas can also be incorporated.

CRB checks and supervision of pupils

Emma Sykes has a current CRB certificate, which can be seen on the day. However, she would not expect to be on her own with children at any point, as adults from each school are needed to supervise their children at all times. Emma needs to ensure that instruments and equipment are used safely and appropriately.