Rhythmic Adventure: Grades 3 & 4 Explore the Beat with Uncle Devin!

On Thursday, November 7, students in Grades 3 and 4 traveled to the REACH at the Kennedy Center to see a performance by D.C.-based musician Uncle Devin. As part of this exciting and interactive experience, students had the chance to experience the magic of rhythm in a hands-on way—by using the oldest percussion instrument of all: their body! This experience, guided by the energetic and inspiring Uncle Devin, offered a unique opportunity for children to explore the fundamental elements of music while developing creativity, coordination, and teamwork.

Uncle Devin, the “Children’s Drumcussionist,” grew up in Seat Pleasant, Maryland, where he learned to play many kinds of drums and percussion instruments. Today, his biggest passion is sharing his love of music and culture with children. 

One way that Uncle Devin draws inspiration from the Washington, D.C. area is by his incorporation of Go-Go music into his performances. Go-Go, the official music of Washington, D.C., doesn’t have an official start date, but it has an awesome history that began at least forty years ago. A young guitarist named Chuck Brown had a genius idea: instead of stopping between each song, his band continued to play while he talked to the crowd during the song transitions, keeping people on the dance floor. His new style of music was nicknamed “Go-Go” because the parties (also called Go-Go's) would go on and on. That young bandleader, Chuck Brown, earned the title “Godfather of Go-Go.” 

Participating in this interactive performance helped enhance students’ musical skills, boost coordination, and encourage creativity. Using multiple parts of the body to create sound helps children develop motor skills and body awareness. Stomping, clapping, and slapping all require coordination, which strengthens both fine and gross motor abilities.

This field trip with Uncle Devin was more than just an introduction to rhythm; it was an experience that encouraged children to connect with their own bodies, their creativity, and each other. As they explored the relationship between sound and movement, they gained a greater appreciation for music while developing skills they can carry with them far beyond the classroom. Whether it’s stomping, clapping, or snapping, each child left the experience with new skills and a love for the rhythmic world around them.