California summer camp brings traditional music to children

Topic:

This article is about a summer camp where kids learn to play a style of traditional Mexican music.

       

    

Before reading:

       

General Knowledge:

• Can you find the US state of California on a map?
• What is mariachi music? What kinds of instruments are played? Do an internet search if you aren't sure.

            

Speculate:

• This article tells the story about a man who created a free program to teach children how to play mariachi music. What do you think are his goals for the program?

         

          

Click on the embedded link below to read the article, see photos, watch a video, and listen to or download the audio file on the PRI website. Word count: 901

         

Mariachi camp in California teaches kids tradition for free

After reading:

         

Review and discuss:

• Write a 3-4 sentence summary of this article. Begin your summary with "This article is about…".
• Jose Soto tells the children to "see if you can fit [an instrument] into your life". What do you think he means by this?
• What are some possible reasons that Rebecca Humphreys might have decided to join the mariachi music program?
• Debate with your partner(s): Is it a good idea to recruit more students like Rebecca Humphreys (students with no ties to Mexico) for the mariachi music program? Consider arguments for and against this option.
• What might be some of the benefits of having a program like this for children? Make a list.
• In your opinion, what was the most interesting thing mentioned in this article? Why?

            

Reflect and evaluate:

• Describe traditional musical styles and instruments from your culture. Do children learn how to play them? In what kinds of situations do people hear this music? Is there special clothing to wear while playing this music?
• What role has music had in your life? Do you enjoy traditional music? Can you play an instrument? Tell your partner how music makes you feel.
• Reflect on the relationship between music and culture. Write down your thoughts.
• Is there anything else you'd like to know about this topic? Do you have any questions that weren't answered in the article?
• What vocabulary words were new to you in this article? Make a record of what you have learned.

            

Beyond the page:

• Choose one type of traditional music from your culture and research its history.
• The British Library has a collection of traditional music from around the world. Choose a region to explore: British Library World and Traditional Music

              

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