The project “Global Melodies – A Musical Exploration” was launched in the fall of 2023 with the aim of offering free and easily accessible music programs to the children of ElbeGrundschule in Berlin-Neukölln, in collaboration with the Global Music Academy (GMA). The diversity and multilingualism of the school community and the musicians of the GMA formed an important foundation for the project. The project was funded by the “Projektfond Kulturelle Bildung”
After a kick-off concert in January 2024, where all the children of ElbeSchule had the opportunity to meet the musicians, the project began to take shape. Starting in February 2024, two regular music AGs (working groups) were organized, attracting over 30 children from grades 1–4 of ElbeSchule. The musical work took place in two groups: the Wednesday AG for grades 1–2 at GMA and the Friday AG for grades 3–4 at ElbeSchule.
The children in the AGs were introduced to various musical styles, including South Indian, Brazilian, and West African rhythms, as well as different instruments such as the tambura and balafon. Highlights of the project included various public musical presentations, including a concert in June 2024 and participation in the Harzer Kiezfest in September 2024.
The project reached a total of approximately 520 visitors and not only fostered musical skills but also boosted the children’s self-confidence, particularly in relation to the stage and music. The opportunity to experience live music was especially valuable, as many of the children attended a live concert for the first time in their school lives. The project contributed to the social and cultural development of the children and strengthened their participation in cultural activities.
© 2024 Global Melodies – A Musical Exploration
Artistic Direction: Manickam Yogeswaran
Participating Musicians: Silke Reichmann de Salas, Beatriz Chinaider, Aly Keita, Roshanak Rafani, briefly Diogo Brega and João Comazzi de Oliveira.
Production Management and Overall Organization: Laura Coulibaly
Coordination GMA: Laura Wenzlaff
Support 12.6.24: Olivia Jenks
Video: André Vollrath, Paula Nino Ramirez
Photos: Joanna Szproch
Sound Record: Jasper Blankenagel
Cooperation Partners: Global Music Academy, Social Pedagogical Station of ElbeSchule, Nena e.V., Global Music e.V., Harzer Kiezfest (QM Harzer Straße).
Many thanks to ElbeSchule and the children and parents of the AGs!
