Last Tuesday, a special group, Wyniss, travelled all the way from one of the Torres Strait Islands (Mua Island) to perform some traditional music and dance for the students in Kindy through to Year 6.
The traditions of music and dance in the Torres Strait are significant aspects of Torres Strait culture. The skills that are involved in singing, playing music and dancing are gradually developed over many years, passed down through the generations. As part of the curriculum, it is important for students to respond to different styles of music and to understand the role it plays in different cultures.
The members of the group decided to call themselves Wyniss after an exotic lizard found only on their island. They feel that they’re all a bit shy, but just like the lizard, they are very colourful and exotic!
The students had a wonderful time and were eager to participate in the string figure songs and spinning top songs. As some of you may have noticed, several students have caught the ‘string figure bug!’ The visitors were impressed by how much knowledge our students already knew about the instruments and traditional dance dress worn by the Wyniss members. Thank you to our leadership students, Ava and Matthew, who acknowledged country and thanked the group at the conclusion of the show.
Thank you also to Musica Viva who has made this incursion affordable and possible for school children who would not usually be exposed to these kinds of experiences.
Click on the link below for some photos and videos of the incursion.
Musica Viva Photos/ Videos
Mrs Margaret James
Music/ Support Teacher