Difficulty: Explorer (Level 1)
Ever wanted to play a drum beat, but don’t know how to play the drum? A rattle drum can solve that problem.
This traditional Chinese instrument was made of bamboo with drumheads on a pole.
Two beads were attached to it with a string. The beads strike the drum to create a rhythmic and distinct sound. The rattle drum was once a recognisable signal for street vendors and a popular children’s toy. Still, that doesn’t mean it was just for children.
Historically, the rattle drum was used in Chinese ceremonies. It was also considered a sacred instrument and used in rituals to ward off evil.
It symbolised good fortune and joy. The rhythm of the rattle drum reflected the festive atmosphere of the celebrations.
Make your own rattle drums
Materials
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2 small paper plates, about 18cm big
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red paint
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sturdy paper straw
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masking tape
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2 pieces of ribbon, each about 9cm long
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2 big, plastic beads
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stapler
Instructions
1. Paint the bottoms of the plates red. Let the paint dry.
2. Use masking tape to attach the sturdy paper straw to the centre of the unpainted side of one plate.
3. Take the two pieces of ribbon and attach a bead to each one. An easy way to do this is to thread the ribbon through the centre of the bead and tie a knot. Use masking tape to attach the free ends of the ribbon near the edge of the unpainted side of the plate, about 2cm away from the centre.
4. Place the second plate on top of the one with the straw. Make sure the red sides face outward, and the ribbons hang out.
5. Imagine the drum is a clock. Staple the plates together at the 12, 3, 6 and 9 spots on the “clock”. Ask an adult to help.
6. To make noise, hold the drum’s handle in your hands and twist it back and forth.
Play a game of copycat
Now that you know how to play the rattle drum, let’s play a game!
Instructions
1. With a friend, take your rattle drum and play a pattern of beats.
2. Your friend has to copy the beat you played. If they fail, you get a point. Use the table below to keep track of your scores.
3. After they respond to you, it’s your friend’s turn to play a pattern of beats. You have to copy the beat they played.
4. Who was the most successful?
