The string ensemble at Reddam House Waterfall has put together a video featuring their virtual performance of Something Just Like This by The Chainsmokers and Coldplay.
Music teacher at Reddam House Waterfall College Marita Lübbe spoke to the Fourways Review, explaining how the project was conceptualised and put together.”In light of the uncertainty faced over when we would be able to return to school, I came up with the idea to put this video together, even when we are not together,” said Lübbe.
“Despite these difficult circumstances, this was a chance for something special. Music develops analytical, critical, creative thinking, collaborative skills, judgement, problem-solving and self-discipline.”It can also reduce stress and anxiety and it can lead to feelings of accomplishment and pride.”
She said the unexpected and sudden transition to virtual teaching and online lessons was challenging. Having to completely change their style of teaching for an entire term of online learning was a major hurdle.”It is one thing to write the different parts of the instruments and another trying to get students to learn and practise their parts. Ensemble playing is about playing together as a group, as a whole, rather than individually.”
Lübbe explained that under the circumstances, none of the musicians could meet. “It was rather challenging not to be able to listen to your fellow musicians actually playing with you. I also wanted to instil a sense of community by letting each participant feel like their part is integral to the final product, and that they are playing an essential part.”
She said that this was an opportunity for learners to become more familiar with new software, online platforms and new forms of communication.”Perhaps this was a way to work on and improve our fluency in technology so that when we return to society, we will be more technologically fluent than before.”
Lübbe explained that the main objective of the project was to create, have fun and enjoy making music.Musicians had to learn their part of the song, practise it with a click track to keep timing aligned, record and film themselves and send in their videos and audios.Lübbe said she was excited when it all came together and started taking shape.
She said parents, college staff and the head of the music department Sheree Ferreira were very supportive. “This was a new concept for all of us. I think this was an opportunity to explode with innovation, advancement and accomplishment.”
Lübbe concluded, “I hope these projects can encourage students to continue to make music and learn to grow as well as to remain positive in this unprecedented situation.”
