“… Our choreography consists of two suitcases in which we carry small percussion instruments, egg shakers, maracas, boomwhackers, and wood blocks. It is the magical moment when children can take instruments and start their individual and collective musical exploration at the same time, in a multidimensional interaction with us, and each other. A place where everyone feels part of the group and at the same time in connection with themselves in free expression through the language of music. The instruments come out of the suitcase one by one, some children feel the need to quickly switch instruments, others focus on the first instrument taken for a long time. In a few seconds, a new very young orchestra is formed. We continue playing other pieces, giving many children the opportunity to try and play with us on the ukulele, percussions, small flutes, and kazoo. The orchestra grows and dynamically changes members, alternating between children arriving and leaving. We are now off the small natural stage made of roots and bushes, interacting with the little orchestra members who play our songs, listening to both our rhythm and their own internal rhythm. We continue by inviting the children to sing simple melodic patterns while they play. We leave room for improvisation within the pieces, creating dynamics and colors that can bring out different sounds. It all might seem chaotic and disorganized, but the rhythmic complexity achieved through collective exploration surprises and excites me greatly …”

Extracts from reflections on a Collaborative Music Show at the Naturlegeplads in Valby, Copenhagen, on May 22, 20