From Hal Leonard

World Music Drumming 101

No matter what instruments you have or don't have, BEATBOX will get you started. Experience a variety of world drumming styles as you accompany folk melodies and original songs. Create the basic pattern used by rock drummers, recreate the sound of a mbira (thumb piano) with xylophones, form your own Haitian merengue ensemble, learn lively body percussion from the long tradition of hambone and step-dancing, or a lively fiddle tune with an Irish Bodhran drumming part. Experiment with call and response, layered ostinatos, syncopation and improvisation; learn the Bamboo Tamboo from the Caribbean, the Highlife from West Africa, and how to make a drum talk.

Helpful step-by-step instructions are included, along with cross-cultural connections and historic fun facts, and suggestions on how to use the instruments you already have. The included online access offers performance and instrumental tracks for each song, and PDFs of songsheets and instrument parts for printing and projection options. Transform music time with BEATBOX and let the rhythms flow. Songs include: Bamboo Tamboo Time, BeatBox, Boom Boom Share A Drum, Good News Summer Is Coming, Highlife Christmas, Knock On Wood, The Little Beggarman, Map Rap, Mbira: All Thumbs, Merry Merengue, StomPa Tap, and Take Four. (Grades 2-5)

Handbook will contain the online access code.