SCHOOLS & ASSEMBLIES

All enrichment assemblies conform to the guidelines of History/Social Science framework for California public schools established by the California Department of Education.

"Folk Songs U.S.A."

is a fast-paced, high-energy performance designed to encourage audience participation through singing and playing instruments. This presentation is built on traditional folk songs and the stories they tell. Students learn about oral tradition, and see in action traditional instruments from the 1800's including guitar, banjo, jug, gut bucket bass, washboard, jaw harp, mandolin, spoons, dulcimer, and limberjack. A highlight of this presentation is the participation of up to fifteen students in the "Band of Bobs." Continuity and change, historical perspective, cultural diversity, attitude, choices, and the connection between ideas and behavior, are emphasized elements of this popular program.
Related areas: American History, Social Studies, Language Arts, Multicultural Studies

"Goin’ to California"

is a fun, fact-filled program that outlines the effects of the gold rush on California and its earlier residents including the Californios, Native Americans, John Sutter and later Chinese immigrants. Students learn about the plight of the local Indians and their struggles to survive the onslaught of gold hunting immigrants. Students will sing and dance a Sierra Miwok acorn song, a Mexican rancho song, a Chinese lament, and several songs that describe the miner's life and hardships. As in our other presentations, student participation is emphasized through singing, dancing, and instrument playing. The content of this program will give students a clear view of the wide-ranging effects of the gold rush, locally, nationally, and globally. Gold Rush songs, include What Was Your Name in the States? Oh California, The Elephant I've Seen, Old Dan Tucker, and the lovely and haunting Chinese lament, A Gust of Fall Wind.
Related areas: California History, Social Studies, Language Arts, and Multicultural Studies.

Songs, Dances and Stories of Native American People

Charles Hurley grew up listening to his grandmother tell the ancient stories of the Standing Rock Sioux tribe. The stories she told, the same ones she had heard her grandmother tell, inspired Mr. Hurley to research his Native American roots, and sparked a passionate interest in all indigenous people. This 90-minute presentation is aimed at smaller groups of students studying Native American life. Students will learn about Native American life and culture through stories, songs, and dances representing various tribes of California and plains Indians. Participants will have an opportunity to drum on a 24” community drum, sing songs in several different native languages, as well as dance traditional dances. An Acorn Song from the Yokut tribe, a Sierra Miwok Acorn Dance and Song, the Mojave Indian Bird Dance and Song, the Rabbit Song of the Northern Plains tribes, and a Hunting Song and Dance of the Omaha Indians are featured in this program. Stories of how the people received the flute, when the animals held a meeting, how the turkey made corn, and when the dogs held an election, will be told as introduction to the songs and dances, as well as to give students insight into Native American beliefs, their strong connection to nature, and their unique sense of humor.

Family Fun Night!

Roots – The Geography and Music Family Night

America is a pluralistic and multicultural nation. This fun family program brings awareness of our diverse roots in the world community. In this two-hour program, students and adults will explore the geography and music of six continents. Through the use of a treasure hunt, we teach geographic literacy, understanding of world community, and knowledge of family history.

Features: large, colorful information displays, and hands-on instrument stations for each continent (including 300 instruments from around the world,) information treasure hunt, sing-along in many languages, instrument making, and door prizes.