Needham Community Education

Are you looking for a powerful way to express yourself while connecting to others, and having fun? This class may be your opportunity to do just that! Upon completion of this course, you will learn basic hand-drumming techniques on the djembe, improve your rhythm sensibility, and learn traditional rhythms from Guinea and Mali. Continuing students will build upon their skills. In each class, you will develop an inner focus in real time, while connecting with others in a safe space. You will also experience how drumming can both relax and energize us, simultaneously. Other benefits include: building confidence, memory improvement, and greater coordination skills. Drums are available to rent in advance, by emailing the instructor: AcornDrumming@gmail.com.

The Native American Style Flute (NASF) is a simple instrument to learn to play, even for those who have no prior musical training. The instrument creates an expressive sound that can be cathartic to hear and produce. In this program, you will receive an introduction to the instrument and learn the basics for playing music (alone and with others). The classes will cover breath control, finger placement, playing with the basic scale, and some embellishments. We will learn some songs and also focus on improvising, allowing the players to bring forth their own music from this intuitive instrument. Being able to read music is not a requirement. Listen to the sounds of the NASF here. Note: Classes will be taught using an A minor flute. Students may bring their own flute or purchase one from the instructor for $40 at the first class.

Did you sing in school or college but haven’t done so since? Have you always wanted to sing, but don’t believe you have the skills? If so, let’s get together to make a great sound! In this class, we will learn the basic elements of singing, such as the physical process, pitch, rhythm, and expression. Depending on students’ skills, we will work on one part and two part songs, including traditional songs, show tunes, and maybe even some a capella. This class will provide a safe and supportive space to discover the joy of expressing yourself through singing.