Paul Taylor
Paul Taylor is a native of Adelaide, South Australia. Storyteller, authentic player of Aboriginal percussion & didjeridoo, he trained as a social worker and also in theater. He returns to Australia on sabbatical each year where he is mentored by Yidumduma Bill Harney, custodian of the Wardaman Aboriginal culture in Australia’s Northern Territory. Paul travels the US performing and conducting interactive sessions for schools, performing arts centers, festivals, museums & libraries. He has worked with over 300,000 American students and recorded 5 award-winning albums of Australian song and story. He has been honored with a Parents’ Choice Gold and a WY Governor’s Arts Award.
Minimum number of performances and/or workshops required for travel or hire:
1 - Must be routed in area
Assembly Performance:Wonders Down Under
Australian Music & Stories
Wonders Down Under is an interactive multifaceted performance. Students come away with a unique look at the wonderful Aussie character through an exciting mix of stories, songs, dance, theater and didgeridoo – drawing comparisons in American history and culture. The performance honors both the Aboriginal and European roots of Australia. Students are introduced to the Aboriginal spiritual worldview called Bush University; the Aboriginal creation story – teaching us to pay attention, care for our water, care for our land – to care for our place wherever we may be.
Duration: 45-50 minutes
Grade Level: Pre-K, Elementary School
Maximum Number of Students: PreK-1st: (300-350), 2nd-5th (400) - Please ask if your number exceeds these guidelines.
Maximum Number of Performances: 2
Technical Requirements:
- Simple sound system with one vocal mic and one instrument mic
- 8′ x 102 clean and clear staging area
NC Essential Standards: MUSIC – 1.MR.a/2.MR.1 Understand the interacting elements to respond to music and music performances 1.MR.1.1/2.MR.1.1 Illustrate prominent musical characteristics or specific musical events while listening to and/or singing music. 1/MR.1.2 / 2.MR.1.3 Illustrate audience and participant behavior appropriate for the purpose and setting that music is performed 2.CR.1 / 5.CR.1 Understand global, interdisciplinary, and 21st century connections with music 2.CR.1.1 / 5.CR.1.1 Recognize how music is used in customs and traditions of various cultures 2.CR.1.2 / 5.CR.1.2 Understand the relationship between music and concepts from other areas. HISTORY – WH.H.5.3 Analyze colonization in terms of the desire for access to resources and markets as well as the consequences on indigenous cultures, population, and environment
Cost: $800 for one program / $1,400 for two programs (same school, same day)