El Pescador: Cumbia Rhythm
By Daniel Montes de Oca Téllez, ETM-LA Music Teacher
Education Through Music-Los Angeles
October 8, 2024
Grade Level: Elementary
Duration: 15 minutes
Focus: Antiphonal Melody and Cumbia Rhythm (video)
Objectives:
– Students will learn the melody of the chorus of “El Pescador.”
– Students will understand and perform both antiphonal (call and response) parts.
– Students will learn the cumbia rhythm and combine it with the melody.
Materials:
– Audio recording of “El Pescador” (optional)
– Rhythm sticks or water bottle + pencil (optional, can clap rhythm instead)
– Visual Aids (lyrics and rhythm patterns)
Procedure:
- Introduction to the Song (1 minute):
– Briefly introduce “El Pescador,” a traditional Colombian cumbia song by Totó la Momposina.
– Explain the cultural background and how call-and-response is used in the song.
- Learn the Melody of the Chorus (4 minutes):
– Sing or play the melody of the chorus for the students.
– Break the melody into smaller sections and have the students repeat after you.
– Gradually piece the sections together until they can sing the entire chorus.
- Practice Call and Response Parts (5 minutes):
– Teach one or both parts (depending on time and class readiness).
– Divide the class into two groups: one sings the call, the other responds.
– Alternate roles between the groups.
- Introduce the Cumbia Rhythm (5 minutes):
– Demonstrate the basic cumbia rhythm by clapping, beatboxing, or using instruments.
– Have students practice the rhythm together.
– Layer the rhythm with the chorus, either in sequence or simultaneously.