Percussion and Maracas Workshop with Sonia Nding
About the Instructor
Sonia is the founder of Dance Daily. Trained from childhood in various styles (ballet, hip-hop, jazz, Bollywood), she has performed on Calgary’s largest stages. As a certified Naacho Bollywood Fitness instructor, she teaches adults and children with passion.
Through her approach centred on rhythm and play, she offers classes, youth workshops, and corporate team-building activities. Her mission is to create inclusive spaces where everyone can express themselves freely, move with joy, and connect with others. For her, dance is a daily experience.
Workshop Description
Immerse children in a musical and creative universe through a lively story, rhythm, and instrument-making. This workshop invites participants to explore maracas, sing, move, and create while discovering world cultures in a fun and immersive way.
Additional Resources: Educational tools can be provided beforehand to prepare students and enrich their experience.
- Age: 3 to 8 years old (from early childhood to Grade 2)
- Duration: 60 minutes per class
- Capacity: Up to 25 children per group (with adults/chaperones present to supervise the group)
- Organization: Available for multiple classes on the same day, or as a workshop series spread over several days or weeks.
Educational Objectives
- Develop creative expression through rhythm and music
- Stimulate fine motor skills through a hands-on activity (instrument making)
- Explore the basics of rhythm and musical expression
- Discover cultural elements related to world music
- Encourage imagination and active participation
Workshop Series Outline (Recommended Format)
- Session 1: Discovery of the story’s universe, learning a song, and exploring different types of maracas.
- Session 2: Review of the theme song, handmade maracas-making workshop, and movement activities.
- Session 3: Rhythmic and physical expression using the crafted maracas, featuring a reprise of the song and main musical games.
Adaptability & Showcase
The standard format is a series of at least 3 workshops (recommended format) in order to include the hands-on creation activity and full rhythmic exploration. However, tailored one-time interventions remain possible according to your needs, available space, and themes (e.g., world celebrations).
Note: This workshop focuses on a creative and participatory experience. It does not include a formal public performance but features wonderful moments of collective musical sharing throughout the sessions.
Microgrant Funding and Booking Procedures
Standard Rate: $1,200 / 3-Workshop Package
- Includes three 60-minute sessions.
- The ACFA applies a $300 administrative fee per agreement to cover costs related to processing the micro-grant application, preparing contracts, invoicing, and payments.
Micro-grants amount to $1,500 per series of workshops and/or performances, per school, per year. Community organizations manage these micro-grants for schools and handle the hiring of artists or consultants. For more information regarding these micro-grants, please visit the following webpages: PassepArt, ImmersArt, and ViceVersa.
Regional Travel Expenses
For workshops taking place outside of Calgary, a flat fee of $100 for travel expenses applies to the following regions: Airdrie, Cochrane, and Okotoks.
To book a workshop, please contact us at: info.calgary@acfa.ab.ca
In the event that the school wishes to book the workshop outside the micro-grant framework, ACFA Calgary can either handle the arrangements or put you directly in contact with the person in charge of the workshop.