(1888PressRelease)
November 08, 2007 - Over 70 young children in Thailand have been give the opportunity to learn musing using the innovative Orff methods, developed by German composer Carl Orff. These, however, are no ordinary children as they were all born with the HIV virus, and have subsequently lost their parents to an AIDS-related illness.
The program uses a special group of instruments including glockenspiels, xylophones, metallophones and percussion instruments. Lessons have been taking place every Sunday afternoon under the expert guidance of American composer and music director, Bruce Gaston, who is recognized as an authority on Thai music. It follows the principle that learning should be fun and natural.
Improvisation is encouraged and children benefit from the co-ordination and cohesion of playing in a group. It is based on things children like to do such as sing, chant rhymes, clap and dance. The forceful variations on rhythmic patterns makes for very simple and beautiful musical forms, which are easily learned by young children.
The benefits have been real and have led to increased self-confidence and a realization that they can achieve greater things. Within a space of only 3 months they were able to perform a concert at a popular venue in the heart of Bangkok. Gaston is now working on an opera adapted from the book "The Life of Pi" by Yan Martell, which the children will perform.
All of the children live in a small community based in Lopburi province in Thailand, known as
BaanGerda. The children's charity is unique in that it provides a 'family-style environment' with foster parents caring for the children.
Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVY2sVMcvsA
Photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/10103433 ( @ ) N04/sets/72157602822103721/
