The Score Magazine December 2023 issue ft Sandeep Narayan Dec 2023 mag | Page 53

What is body percussion ?
Body percussion , as its name suggests , makes use of the human body to produce sounds . This technique provides the opportunity to develop the sense of rhythm , as well as to strengthen knowledge of all kinds of musical concepts but , above all , to experiment and discover .
It is practiced by giving gentle blows to different parts of the body , using hands , fingers or small instruments . But did you know that not making any movement also produces sounds ? Stay silent and listen carefully as our body is like a musical instrument on its own . By paying a little attention , you can hear how we inhale and exhale air or how our heart beats .
What is body percussion for children ?
Many people ask this question , and the truth is that there is no distinction with the aforementioned , except that it is practiced in children ’ s environments and classes , as a recreational and educational activity .
To make it even more entertaining , you can hold musical sessions , where both your own body and percussion instruments are used .
What does body percussion work on ?
Like other disciplines such as dance , body percussion requires completely active participation . If we think about it , music really is in some way movement and precisely that movement is what we want to exploit with this type of percussion . By carrying out activities of this type in schools or music workshops , it is not only possible for children to learn music , but also to work on their autonomy , as well as develop motor , cognitive and emotional qualities . Of course , all this results in enormous motivation , since learning through fun is much more enjoyable .
In what subjects can it be incorporated ?
If it is taught in schools , the truth is that it does not have to be limited only to the music classroom . In fact , it is usually very common for this activity to be worked on in physical education , with the purpose of creating a close relationship between the body and rhythm . In this subject , there are several ways to practice the sense of rhythm , such as through dance or acrobatics . Body percussion gives , however , a new meaning to these classes , since it is something that is not usually done and that , therefore , stands out and motivates .
What skills are developed with body percussion ?
Using the body percussion method has numerous benefits , among which the following stand out , closely associated with musical practice of any type :
• Improving motor coordination .
• Increased concentration and memory capacity .
• Greater well-being , both physical and mental .
• Discovery of one ’ s own body , using it as an instrument in itself .
• Imagination is encouraged .
• It contributes to the improvement of improvisation skills and , with it , imagination .
What are the types of body percussion ?
In body percussion , the rhythmic instrument is the body itself , which can create different sounds , depending on which part of the anatomy is used . Next , we will tell you in summary how you can produce sound with your body :
• With your hands , you can rub them against each other or clothing , clap them , or gently hit them with other parts of your body , such as your legs or torso .
• The fingers , to snap .
• The thighs , either by hitting them together or with your hands .
• The feet , to hit the ground .
• Of course , this is not all , and you can make whatever combinations you want , and you set the limit . Simply let yourself go and enjoy the music and the experience .
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