In Year 1 across both campuses, the students learn about traditional and modern Australian Music, with a focus on Indigenous Music and animals. To help the students gain a richer understanding of how music relates to culture, we invited Ryka Ali, an indigenous Australian artist, to come and present to the students. Ryka was also joined by his uncle, who helped with the presentation.
The performance included some traditional songs and dances that the students sang and danced to, by watching and following Ryka. The students were also introduced to some traditional Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal musical instruments. The students especially loved dancing to Sasa and Taba Naba!
Ryka’s performance revealed the richness of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islands cultures. A presentation in two parts, reflecting both sides of his heritage, the show was entertaining, educational and participation was greatly encouraged. Even the teachers had to show their dancing skills by dancing along with the kangaroo dance!
Torres Strait Island Language that the students learned:
Kapul Bathanga: Good morning
Kapul Kazul: Good afternoon
Kadul: Saltwater crocodile
Kulup: Shaker
Lumut: Drum carved from bamboo
Zazi: Traditional TSI Grass Skirt
Esso: Thank you
Yawor: Goodbye
Kuku Yalanji Language (Mossman) that the students learned:
Lap Lap: Loincloth
Jalgan: Belt
Woov Woov: Ochre (to make the white paint)
Yidaki: Didgeridoo
Kitcha: Kookaburra
Ugandji: Kangaroo
Geyer: Dingo
Injidja: Mosquito
Some students from 1C (Werribee) shared their favourite moments:
"My favourite part was when Mrs Lewis went on stage. It was really funny." (Nicolo)
"I liked it when people went on stage and danced." (Zion)
"I liked it when Ryka jumped really high, he nearly touched the roof!" (Amelia)
"I like it when Ryka was playing the didgeridoo. It’s one of my favourite instruments." (Sebastian)
"My favourite part was when the kids went on stage." (Charlotte)
"I liked what Ryka was wearing." (Marcus)
"I liked it when Ryka was shaking his knees." (Aiden)
"I liked it when I danced on stage." (Elsa)
"I liked it when Ryka was dancing, and I liked the sound of his voice." (Aiden)