Exploring Aboriginal Music in the Classroom
Music is an important part of Aboriginal culture and a wonderful way to embed Indigenous perspectives in the classroom.
Throughout First Nations cultures, a range of different musical instruments are made, carved from the materials (e.g. different types of trees) available on Country. One such instrument is what we call ‘clapsticks’. Traditionally, they could be made from a set of two clapsticks being paired and beaten against each other, or, as a single clapstick beaten against another object, e.g. the ground or a tree.
Clapsticks are a traditional percussive instrument used for ceremony, social dancing, making music and songs and to educate through storytelling. As for many traditional tools, they can serve more than one purpose, like also being used to dig for yams.
Some clapsticks are plain, but others are intricately designed and decorated or adorned. This depends of the maker, and the purpose for the clapsticks.
They are generally used to maintain rhythm and accompanied by vocals, and can be accompanied by other instruments like didgeridoos. Traditionally, they were used by both men and women.
Another well-known Aboriginal instrument is the Didgeridoo or Yidaki.
The didgeridoo is an end-blown wind men’s instrument and it has become somewhat of a symbolic icon associated with Aboriginal culture. In reality, traditionally not all Aboriginal groups had didgeridoos. They were originally found in Arnhem Land, Northern Australia and known as 'yidaki'.
They are usually made from limbs and tree trunks that have been hollowed out by fire or termites. Different lengths can make different sounds. They are played by blowing through vibrating lips directly into the mouthpiece.
New and contemporary ways of playing have evolved as use of the didgeridoo has spread across the globe, but the traditional method of playing continues to play an important and respected part of Aboriginal culture, as music forms a central element of ceremony.
Ways to explore Aboriginal music in your classroom:
Have clapsticks available for play in the classroom.
Play both traditional-style and contemporary Aboriginal music during quiet times. Tjitji Lullaby is a wonderful one to play.
Have local Aboriginal musicians come into your classroom for incursions. We recommend Aunty Sharron Mirii Bell for SE QLD school.
Further Reading: https://www.monash.edu/education/teachspace/articles/the-power-of-song-sharing-first-nations-languages-through-music