FLUTES FROM AROUND THE WORLD & FLUTE MAKING WORKSHOP

MICHAEL KANNER, SPECTRA ARTIST

While Mr. Kanner plays familiar songs on the flute, students participate in a sing-a-long activity. A variety of flutes are then displayed. While each flute is played, students are directed to listen to the different styles and speculate on the country of origin, (a geography question and answer period is conducted). The second part starts with an explanation of tools, general procedure and safety. Then each child will make a tuned flute with the guidance of the presenter. They have the option of decorating the flute. To conclude, Michael will lead a group lesson on playing the flute and give each child an instruction to take home.

Michael Kanner has been making and playing flutes since 1974. He is a student of Ethnomusicology, the study of world music. He has been a programmer of world music at KUSP FM Santa Cruz for over 30 years. For the last 15 years, he has been teaching flute making in schools, libraries, craft and cultural fairs, and First Night Santa Cruz. He is a member of the American Bamboo Society and a cultivator of bamboo. He is a performer of Shakuhachi (traditional Japanese bamboo flute) and has played in a Javanese gamelon orchestra.

K-8 $200 per classroom
(831)227-8394 / mkanner32@sbcglobal.net

What the teachers say:

"I took part in every aspect of the lesson except the flute making (torch). Everyone was enthralled with Mr.Kanner‚s music and demonstrations of flutes from all over the world. Interest was high throughout the morning. Michael was positive and complimentary," Dianne Sherwood, Grade 2, Del MarElementary

"We learned a lot about different flutes and where they came from. Everyone loved it. Mr. Kanner made sure students‚ responses were validated. He arrived early to set-up. He was especially concerned for safety. Students loved making their own flute. Very nice transitions from intro-activity-closure," Mrs. Ray, Grade Kindergarden, Del Mar Elementary

"Students really enjoyed the 'hands-on' experience and seeing and hearing about different flutes. Michael encouraged lots of participation. What a great experience!" Kaylene Johnson, Grade 2, Del Mar Elementary

What the kids say:

Thank you Mr. Kanner,
"My favorite part was making the flutes and decorating them. I would really like it if I could do this next year, too. Oh, before I forget, the other thing I really liked is how you showed and played us all the different flutes, bamboo and the rest of the stuff." Your friend, Alex 3rd Grade, Del Mar Elementary

Dear Michael.
"Thank you for showing us how to make flutes. It was fun. I liked the part where we burned the holes, which was the main part, hope I can see you again in the 3rd grade." Sincerely, Kayla, 2nd grade, Capitola Elementary