Cup Rhythms: Part 2

Lesson 1

Music begins with people. Across cultures, rhythm has been created through movement, play and shared experiences long before formal instruments existed. In this project, we explore Escatumbaribê and develop our own cup polyrhythms, using cups as a tool for musical expression, creativity and collaboration.

Through learning, performing and creating together, we will explore the connection between music as performance and music as brincadeira — a Brazilian idea of play, participation and shared musical experience.

Preparation:

  • Check and watch each of the video links and check they work and you understand each task.

  • Lessons can be desk based or could work in a larger space.

  • Have white boards and pens or paper for each person in the group.

  • You’ll need one cup per person.

Activity 1 - Warm up

Pass The Cup Level 1 – 5-10 mins

Pass the Cup is an engaging game designed to promote listening skills, develop a sense of pulse and coordination among children. It can be played in pairs or within a circle, encouraging teamwork and focus. Participants follow a series of instructions, call and response, involving the cup, such as passing it to the next person, turning it over, or tapping it, ensuring active participation and attention throughout the activity.

  • Make sure children are sat facing a partner or in a circle and can pass their cup easily.

  • Follow the video and join in.

  • First time it is suggested to play the video at 0.75 speed.

    Open the YouTube video you want to watch.

    Click the Settings icon (gear symbol) at the bottom right of the video player.

    Select Playback speed from the menu.

    Choose your preferred speed from the list, such as 0.75x for slower or 1.25x for faster.

    The video will now play at the selected speed.

Activity 2 - Be Inspired

A la lata al latero (Spanish tutorial) – 5 mins

"A la lata, al latero" is a traditional Spanish children's song that has been passed down through generations. Known for its catchy rhythm and playful lyrics, it is often used in educational settings to engage young learners in music and language.

  • Watch the video.

  • Ask the group what they notice?

    • what’s the cup doing?

    • how’s it moving?

    • did you pick out any of the lyrics?

Activity 3 - Give it a go!

A la lata al latero (Rob’s Kitchen Tutorial) – 25 mins

This English tutorial introduces the lyrics and the cup passing rhythm.

  • Watch the second video from the start until 3:36. To start with we are just focussing on learning the lyrics.

  • Join in with the video.

A La Lata Al Latero

A la lata al latero
A la hija del chocolatero
A la lima al limón
A la hija de Don Simón

To the can, to the tin man
To the daughter of the chocolate maker
To the lime, to the lemon,
To the daughter of Don Simon.

  • Now, split the class into groups of 3 to 4 people. Get into a circle close enough so that passing cups is possible. This could work around class tables.

  • Spend a minute focussed on passing cups around the circle. Can you pass them with a steady beat?

  • Watch the video once from 3:36 - 4:36 and then repeat the video asking the class to join in matching their movements with what’s on screen.

  • Give the class a moment to practice without the video at their own pace.

  • Watch from 4:36 and try and join in and see if anyone can chant the lyrics at the same time. The next lesson recaps over this so don’t worry if the group can’t quite manage this first lesson.