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Awarded twice by the National Association
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If you want your students to play steel drum(pan) and you don't already have a set at your school, a Jumbie Jammin' residency is the perfect way to introduce your students to this fun and culturally significant instrument. (If already have a set of full-sized steel drums, click here.)
Kimberly M. Roberts is the absolute, most qualified person to conduct residencies on the Jumbie Jam student-sized steel drum- she literally "wrote the book on it!" Its manufacturer, Panyard, Inc. contracted Mrs. Roberts to compose the beginning songs and write the instruction manual that comes with each drum. They consulted with her during the instrument's development as their "Director of Creative Learning and Educational Research." The Jumbie Jam went on to receive two of NAMM's most prestigious awards- Best in Show & Best Tools for Schools. |
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What will be the outcome of a Jumbie Jammin' residency?
During even the shortest Jumbie Jammin' residency, students will learn proper steel drum playing technique, at least 2 "performance ready" songs, and how to safely handle the instrument to ensure it stays in excellent playing condition for years to come. The teacher will be left with the skills necessary to appropriately teach steel drums using the most efficient and educationally-sound method possible. Beyond this, the length of the residency will determine what other things will be accomplished. There is the possibility for student performance, teacher workshops, improvisation, melodic composition, and more. Mrs. Roberts will discuss your classroom goals with you when you contact her about a residency.
What ages can successfully play steel drums in a school setting?
Children can successfully play steel drums and especially the Jumbie Jam at a very early age, so long as they receive one-on-one instruction; however, in a classroom setting, steel drums are most appropriate for 3rd grade and up. (For International Schools, this would be Year 3 or students in Key Stage 2 and up.) In a few settings, students in 2nd grade have played the Jumbies, but it is not recommended. Younger students usually do not have the motor development nor the prerequisite musical skills to enjoy meaningful success in a classroom setting. Jumbie Jams are even appropriate for older students and have even been used in high schools and senior adult programs.
How long is a Jumbie Jammin' residency?
Residencies are available as short as one 45-60 minute class period and can be as long as your school wishes, depending on the goals of your school. The most common residency options include an educational school assembly by the professional adult steel band, Pantasia.
Will my school need to purchase a set of Jumbie Jams to participate in this residency?
Mrs. Roberts can bring enough drums for an entire class to successfully participate in a residency and your school will not need to purchase; however, your school is encouraged to do so. This way you can continue year to year with steel drums in your class room using the instruction techniques you have shown during the residency. If you choose to purchase drums for your school, Mrs. Roberts can guarantee you the lowest price possible because of her ties with the manufacturer. Click here for more information about Jumbie Jam and/or steel drum purchase.
Is there a curriculum and/or lesson plans available?
During her residency at your school, Mrs. Roberts will leave you with all of the lesson plans and information about quality additional teaching materials you will need to successfully continue to use steel drums in your classroom. There are several steel drum curriculum books by other authors you will find that are available for purchase; however, none are ones she would endorse because of flaws in the teaching methods.