By Mrs Kelly (Year 5 Teacher)

Year 5 students were incredibly lucky to be involved in a Gospel Singing Workshop as part of an introduction to our new Unit of Inquiry under the theme, How We Express Ourselves. The workshop introduced them to the captivating history of Gospel music and immersed them in its vibrant spirit through call and response, group singing, foot stomping, and plenty of clapping and dancing!

Our session leader took the students on a captivating journey, delving deep into the roots of Gospel music. The girls learned about the historical significance of this genre and how Gospel music emerged as an expression of faith, resilience, and hope during challenging times.

The year group eagerly participated in call and response exercises, embracing the interactive nature of Gospel music. This classic technique allowed them to experience the communal aspect of singing and to feel the energy that resonates between a leader and a group. The joyous sound of their collective voices filled the room, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration.

To deepen their understanding of Gospel music, the students also had the chance to experiment with various instruments commonly used in this genre. From tambourines to shakers, hand drums to keyboards, they explored the unique sounds and textures that complement the spirited vocals. They discovered the importance of rhythm, timing and harmonies.

The workshop culminated in a performance for parents, showcasing the newfound skills and exuberance of Year 5. The workshop not only exposed the students to a new genre of music, they also had a whole lot of fun!