In class on Tuesday we began talking about Jewish and Hebrew history and culture. We will be spending some time looking at the rich musical culture of the Jewish people in the next couple of weeks.
This week we looked specificaly at the Jewish holiday, Rosh Hashanah. Rosh Hashanah started at sunset on Sunday, and ended at sunset on Tuesday. It is the Jewish New Year, and much like our own New Year, it is a time of reflection. It actually starts a period of 10 days of reflection, looking at mistakes and sins made in the year, and it's a time for atonement.
A Shofar is a ram's horn that is blown like a trumpet during Rosh Hashanah. There are different sounds made with the shofar that remind people to look inward and repent.
The students began making their own Shofars in class. They have been challenged to finish their Shofar at home this week, using recycled items or things they find around the house. They need to find a mouthpiece, and also come up with their own shape and design for the body.
Also, there are 3 different distinct sounds that are made with the SHofar, each one has a different meaning. Students need to practice each one and be ready to sound them off by name in class next week.
Manchester, NH based fine arts program for homeschool students
