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Chinese Drum

Percussion is the oldest form of non-vocal music, and drumming has special significance in China. Create and perform on your own hand-made Chinese drum.

Lesson Plan

Supplies Needed

Gather all the supplies needed to bring your craft ideas to life! From paints and markers to glue and scissors, our crafts section has everything to spark creativity and make every project truly special.

  • Fabric
  • Recycled Plastic Containers
  • Rubber Band(s)

Steps

  • Step 1

    In China, traditional drumming is associated with rituals and celebrations. It is believed that drum music creates a sense of unity and peace in both the player and the listener. Display images of various Chinese drums - "gu" in Chinese - and listen to some Chinese drumming excerpts. Ask students how the music made them feel. What emotions did it evoke? Was it uplifting? Was it awe-inspiring?

  • Step 2

    Have students create a Chinese-style drum. They can wrap and glue construction paper to a recycled canister such as an oatmeal container, then decorate the paper with images that are representative of authentic Chinese drums. Ask them to cover the open end of the canister with a piece of fabric and secure it with a rubber band. For sticks they can cover the tops of colored pencils with Model Magic balls, which will self-adhere if attached while the modeling material is moist, and allow them to dry.

  • Step 3

    Chinese drumming is usually a group activity. Have students - either as a class or in small groups - create a drum show to perform for others.

Standards

ARTS: Improvise rhythmic and melodic ideas, and describe connection to specific purpose and context (such as personal and social).

SS: Culture: Through experience, observation, and reflection, identify elements of culture as well as similarities and differences among cultural groups across time and place.

Adaptations

Drumming is an integral feature of the Lantern Festival, during which people dress as lions and dragons and dance to the rhythm of drums and cymbals. Have students research the festival. What else do people do to celebrate the occasion?

Have students learn about drums from other countries, such as the Indian tabla, the Afro-Cuban bongo, the African djembe, or the steelpan of Trinidad and Tobago.