First Nations, Inuit, and Metis cultures have long passed on knowledge from generation to generation through oral traditions, including storytelling, song, dance that teach about cultural beliefs, values, customs, rituals, history, practices, relationships, and ways of life.
The Circle of Life: Traditional Ojibwa Teachings and Stories with Esther Osche
Grades 3 to 8, 9 to 12, | 2 classes/session | maximum 3 sessions/day | limited availability
Social Studies: Heritage & Identity, People & Environments / History & Geography
Ojibwa storyteller and Manitoulin Island resident, Esther Osche, tells stories about the connections between humans, animals, thunder beings, water and wind spirits in an authentic experience that incorporates drum and song.
Esther is also available for presentation regarding the history of Aboriginal Treaties and the military alliances between the Ojibwa, French and English, as well as contemporary Aboriginal issues.
Fiddle Stories with Métis Fiddler Quartet
Grades 4 to 8, 9 to 12 | duo, trio or quartet | maximum 200 to 400 | limited availability
Social Studies: Heritage & Identity, People & Environments / History & Geography
Specializing in performing and interpreting uniquely aboriginal Métis and Native old-style fiddle music learned from elders across Canada, this family of young talented musicians looks forward to introducing aboriginal and non-aboriginal students to this uniquely Canadian musical heritage through interactive performances, demonstrations and Métis jigging.
Seven Sacred Grandfather Teachings with Esther Osche
Grades 3 to 8 | 2 storytelling visits/ class | minimum 4 classes | limited availability
Social Studies: Heritage & Identity, People & Environments / History & Geography / Science: Life Systems / Health & Physical Education: Healthy Living
The First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples of North America were given Seven Sacred teachings that form the foundation of their spirituality. The traditional concepts of respect and sharing that form the foundation of the Aboriginal way of life are built around these teachings where each teaching honours one of the basic virtues to achieve a full and healthy life and is represented by an animal whose characteristic serves to remind us of our connection to nature and to respect all living things.
This program brings Esther Osche into the classroom in partnership with Inner City Angels visual artist and sculptor Charmaine Lurch. Esther shares the Sacred Teachings to further students’ understanding of the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of balance and harmony in achieving a full and healthy life. Students listen to, discuss and reflect on the stories and then create a visual understanding of each.
See IDEAS YouTube: Seven Sacred Grandfather Teachings
World Fiddle Day Toronto featuring Anne Lederman
Grades 4 to 12 STRING PROGRAMS | 4-day series | maximum 1 class/session | maximum 3 sessions/day
Social Studies: Heritage & Identity, People & Environments / History & Geography
In this 4-day workshop series, Anne Lederman along with emerging fiddlers and string players share their passion for diverse Canadian (including unique First Nation and Métis) and World fiddle traditions.