Safari Jams No. 1: Mandjani Dance for Band | Score & Curriculum Guide
Composed by Fred Onovwerosuoke
Curriculum Guide by Alexis Peart
Part of the Castle of our Skins | Boston Public Schools Collection
 
Safari Jams No. 1: Mandjani Dance for Band is an energetic work for wind ensemble that introduces students to the rich world of African polyrhythmic traditions. Drawing inspiration from musical practices found across Africa and its diasporas, composer Fred Onovwerosuoke combines chant-like melodies with vibrant rhythmic textures to create a joyful celebration of community and movement.
 
Named after the Mandjani dance tradition of West Africa, the piece opens with a chant before unfolding into an exuberant dance. Repeated musical sections encourage a sense of collective participation and aspiration, reflecting the communal spirit at the heart of many African musical traditions.
 
The accompanying curriculum guide by Alexis Peart provides ready-to-use lessons and activities that help students explore the cultural, historical, and musical elements featured in the work.
 
Ensemble: Wind Ensemble
Instrumentation:
Piccolo
Flutes 1 & 2
Clarinets 1 & 2
Alto Saxophones
Tenor Saxophones
Trumpets 1 & 2
Trombones 1 & 2
Tuba
Timpani
Temple or Wood Blocks
Snare Drum
Bass Drum
Tambourine
Duration: Approximately 4:30
Includes:
Transposed score
Complete instrumental parts
Curriculum guide by Alexis Peart
Adaptable lesson plans and activities
 
Part of the Boston Public Schools Collection, a series of commissioned works and culturally responsive curriculum guides designed to expand access to music by African diasporic composers for young musicians.