Brien Engel: Glass Harp
Brien Engel initially developed his acclaimed Glass Harp performance from working with arts education specialists in the Young Audiences network, in several YA chapters around the U.S. In addition to playing in K-12 settings, he has given programs for aspiring teachers in colleges, science clubs, and other niche audiences. Recently he appeared at the Waxahachie Texas Chautauqua, with a “World of Water” theme along with keynote speaker Fabien Cousteau. Curriculum connections abound -- he is constantly refining his object lessons in sound physics, and demonstrations of improvised musical instruments, to inspire the fun of learning, and pride in invention.
Minimum number of performances and/or workshops required for travel or hire:
To justify travel to Cumberland County: I require at least two consecutive days of contracts, each for at least two performances.
Assembly Performance: Amazing Glass Harp!
STEM/STEAM value for sound physics! Inspiration for young inventors! Brien Engel presents the Glass Harp -- an instrument of 50 stemmed glasses, which he plays by rubbing his fingers on their rims. This rare art form dates back to the 18th century, and Brien is one of very few practitioners. Students will enjoy a glass harp concert and demonstrations of fundamental sound physics to supplement units taught in class. Additional home-made instruments are presented. A demo model of Ben Franklin's invention, the Armonica, is also featured. This program includes audience interactive elements.
Duration: 45-50 minutes
Grade Level: Pre-K, Elementary School, Middle School, High School
Maximum Number of Students: 300
Maximum Number of Performances: 4
Technical Requirements: Two six-foot tables, three chairs
NC Essential Standards: North Carolina Essential Standards, Music K-8: Kindergarten K.ML.3: Create music using a variety of sound and notational sources. K.MR.1: Understand the interacting elements to respond to music and music performances. 1st grade 1.ML.3: Create music using a variety of sound and notational sources. 1.MR.1: Understand the interacting elements to respond to music and music performances. 2nd grade 2.ML.3: Create music using a variety of sound and notational sources. 2.MR.1: Understand the interacting elements to respond to music and music performances. 3rd grade 3.ML.3: Create music using a variety of sound and notational sources. 3.MR.1: Understand the interacting elements to respond to music and music performances. 3.CR.1: Understand global, interdisciplinary, and 21st century connections with music. 4th grade 4.ML.3: Create music using a variety of sound and notational sources. 4.MR.1: Understand the interacting elements to respond to music and music performances. 4.CR.1: Understand global, interdisciplinary, and 21st century connections with music. 5th grade 5.ML.3: Create music using a variety of sound and notational sources. 5.MR.1: Understand the interacting elements to respond to music and music performances. 5.CR.1: Understand global, interdisciplinary, and 21st century connections with music. 6th grade 6.ML.3: Create music using a variety of sound and notational sources. 6.MR.1: Understand the interacting elements to respond to music and music performances. 6.CR.1: Understand global, interdisciplinary, and 21st century connections with music. 7th grade 7.ML.3: Create music using a variety of sound and notational sources. 7.MR.1: Understand the interacting elements to respond to music and music performances. 7.CR.1: Understand global, interdisciplinary, and 21st century connections with music. 8th grade 8.MR.1: Understand the interacting elements to respond to music and music performances. 8.CR.1: Understand global, interdisciplinary, and 21st century connections with music.
Cost: $580 - one program / $840 - two programs (same day, same school)