Music is a universal language – one that connects people from different cultures. At St Andrew’s Montessori, we love exploring the rich diversity of global music with the children, helping them appreciate the beauty of different traditions while nurturing their creativity and sense of community.
Recently, we took a musical trip to Africa (in the classroom!), where the children delighted in learning a traditional call-and-response song, “Toom-bah-ee-Lero.”
“Call-and-response is a style found in many African cultures, encouraging active participation and shared musical play.”
The children had a wonderful time echoing rhythms, listening carefully to one another and then taking turns leading the group. The simplicity of the structure allowed every child, regardless of experience, to join in proudly and successfully.
Alongside singing, the children explored percussion instruments, including hand drums, tapping out steady beats and experimenting with volume and tempo. Drumming together naturally supports coordination and concentration, and even social awareness, as the group works as one to create a cohesive sound.
Introducing global music also opens the door to cultural understanding. Through songs, instruments and stories, children begin to recognise that people around the world express themselves in wonderfully diverse ways. This helps foster open-mindedness and a sense of belonging to a global community – core values within Montessori education.
At St Andrew’s Montessori, music is more than an activity; it is a pathway to connection and discovery. We look forward to continuing our musical journey around the world and celebrating the traditions that bring people together.