Multicultural reverberations by Anke van Wijck Adán

The idea is that schoolchildren from these low-income multicultural neighbourhoods under the guidance of teachers from the local music school will become acquainted with the characteristics of percussion instruments, in order to be able to approach and share the music of their countries and cultures with their peers. Percussion music is present in the majority of popular musical expression and engages moreover with Mula’s famous drumming fest La Tamborada, listed as a World Heritage immaterial tradition.

The next step will be the manufacturing of these instruments with recycled materials as an extra-curricular activity throughout the school year that will finally lead to performances in both the historical quarters and in other emblematic places in town.

The project that gathers children from different cultures and backgrounds around a shared interest promotes integration, peaceful coexistence, participation and the pursuit of civic values starting from a young age. Such an action does not only have a strong motivational power for these youngsters but will also create a positive attitude and goodwill among their parents, as it contributes to the development of empathy, teamwork and positive interaction among neighbours. Yet it also motivates culture as an essential good that helps eliminate social barriers.

The summer courses, boisterous and at a times a bit rowdy, went better than expected with an average of 20-25 kids per session, totalling some 100. There was a positive mixture of local and immigrant children, especially girls. But even adults could not resist the temptation to join in this unexpected entertainment right at their doorstep.

The beat will go on!!