On June 10, 2016

Killington pre-k students “Bang on a drum”

By Robin Alberti

Pre-k student Bree Sarandrea joyously drums on a djembe.

By Robin Alberti

KILLINGTON — On the morning of Friday, June 3, the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten at KES had a “banging” good time. Gordon Goes, director of “Bang On A Drum” School of Percussion of Killington, volunteered to bring in 17 djembes to the class so the students could experience hands-on the joy of making music together.

After a demonstration, instructions were given on the proper and safe way to play the drums, and every student was handed a djembe drum. The excitement of the children was palpable. They were allowed time for free play, as well as how to repeat rhythms lead by Mr. Goes. Progress was audible as the kids got more familiar with the drums and the different ways to play them. Each student also had a chance to do a solo for their classmates, using their new drumming skills. “Bang On A Drum” presented each participant with a “Star Drummer – Certificate of Accomplishment” to take home.

“There are many benefits of drumming for children and people of all ages,” said Goes. “I think it is important to inspire children to learn a musical instrument and support music programs at schools. That is why I volunteer our services to KES every year for year-end activities.”

Goes also visited with the students at the year-end field day and picnic Monday, June 6, at the Killington Rec.

When asked why he started “Bang On A Drum,” Goes answered: “I think if I can introduce music and drumming to a child and have that become a part of their life, then I have done well that day.  The joy of watching the children embrace the beauty of music and rhythm, is what makes this job so rewarding.  The happiness I see in the young student drummers warms my heart and makes my day.”

Nearly every culture on earth has some form of drumming, and people of all ages can enjoy the benefits, Goes explained. Group drumming requires no advanced physical abilities, so it is a great introduction to playing a musical instrument.

“Gordon believes that Drumming is for everyone and promotes a sense of joy and community, a goal in common with the pre-k school community,” said Betty Hughes, director of the pre-kindergarten program at Killington. “Gordon believes that group drumming helps connect with self and others and emphasizes self-expression and good team building. Nearly every culture on earth has some form of drumming, and now the pre-k in Killington has too!” Hughes added.

Shayna Kalnitsky and her kindergarten class at Killington Elementary School, joined Hughes and the pre-k students for the drumming lesson.

Gordon Goes is an experienced percussionist and has played and produced with many successful musicians, including award-winning local band Bow Thayer and The Euphorians.

“He is a local legend and we are so fortunate to have him take time to come and teach us, and play with us, and let us be creative,” Hughes said.

Bang On A Drum School of Percussion offers group drumming and individual lessons in many types of percussion instruments. For more information visit bangonadrum.com or call (802) 322-DRUM (3786).

Do you want to submit feedback to the editor?

Send Us An Email!

Related Posts

Local road construction plans for 4th of July week

July 2, 2025
The following is a weekly report that lists its planned construction activities that will affect traffic on state highways and interstates throughout Vermont for the week of June 30. Most construction projects will pause work for the 4th of July `Local roads in Rutland and Windsor County, include:     I-89 Royalton Construction continues Monday through…

Ribbon cuttings in Ludlow and Proctorsville highlight local business growth

July 2, 2025
A pair of ribbon cuttings on June 20 held by the Okemo Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce (OVRCC) marked a day of celebration for two local businesses and offered a boost of momentum to the region’s small business economy. In Ludlow, Aubuchon ACE Hardware unveiled its newly renovated store on Main Street with a grand…

Cirque Series celebrates successful Killington debut

July 2, 2025
By Polly Mikula The Cirque Series broke trail in New England with two new races. On June 7, runners raced up Cannon Mountain in Franconia, New Hampshire and this past Saturday, June 28, they tackled “The Beast of the East,” Killington Mountain. Cirque is also adding Crystal Mountain, Washington, to its national lineup of eight…

Rutland Sculpture Trail announces 14th installation

July 2, 2025
The 14th addition to the Rutland Sculpture Trail will honor the community’s giving spirit, volunteerism, and inspiration - and the national record for donating blood. Organizers have commissioned a piece honoring Rutland’s Gift-of-Life Marathon (GOLM), which still holds the one-day U.S. record for blood donations 12 years after setting the record and continues to inspire…