Maori Music of New Zealand
![Picture](/uploads/2/4/9/4/24941365/8321140.jpg)
Maori music is a cultural remnant from when the Polynesian people lived somewhere on the mainland of South-East Asia, and dates back almost a thousand years. Maori music has multiple sub-genres, such as Karakia, Patere, and Waiata. These three categories separate chants that are ritualistic in nature, more secular chants, and love songs. They usually center around one note, and rarely move melodically more than a fourth above or below the central note. They are typically performed by a group that utilizes a nasal and reedy tone quality. There is a leader of the group who sets the pitch and tempo of the chant. Maoris kept tempo not with drums, but by slapping the chest or thighs vigorously. Their instruments include Koauau (a small flute), Nguru (also a small flute), and Putorino (a wooden trumpet). Sometimes, this music is accompanied by dancers using what is called a "poi ball" as shown in the video below. A recent film called Whale Rider examined Maori culture more deeply, and the film shows many example of old Maori traditions.
Photo from: http://www.uni-giessen.de/anglistik/tefl/Projects/exploring/newzealand/Alex's6.htm
Photo from: http://www.uni-giessen.de/anglistik/tefl/Projects/exploring/newzealand/Alex's6.htm
Classroom Implementation
It is very important for elementary students to develop their hand-eye coordination. Making poi balls is a fun and educational way to let children exercise their creativity and coordination. Students could easily make a poi ball by securing string to either a wound up ball of yarn or a tennis ball wrapped in fabric. To make it easier for children to grasp, simply braid a few strands of yarn together before securing it to the tennis ball. Tying up the braid will also give students something to hold onto. Then let children try to mimic some of the moves from the video, being sure that they stand far apart from each other so as to not hit each other.
Photo from: http://www.tonythetiger.frih.net/weapons.htm
Photo from: http://www.tonythetiger.frih.net/weapons.htm