Human Keyboard

This is a game to get everyone involved – and it can range
from something very simple to quite complex.

AIM

The main aim is inclusion, team building.
Everyone is able to make a sound, feel to be included and present in the group, experienced to build something from simple to more complex.
It can also be a performance, with practice and time!

Description

This a game where players represent the keys of the piano and team creates music by singing the key they represent when leader makes a sign.

LEVEL 1 – Intro/Ice Breaker

Participants stand in a line with their arms out in front of them (elbows bent for comfort!).

Participants are given a sound to make, when the DJ/Producer touches/pushes down their hand. This sound can be a ‘Laa’ or a ‘Bom’ – any kind of sound.

Then 8 people given a Key with the name (C, D, etc). You can even ‘sing’ the name of the Key. You can also use a piano/keyboard etc for the actual tuning if you like/need.

C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C

Practice by ‘playing’ the keyboard. Play a scale. Play random notes. Then play 2 notes together on different keys.

Next, gather any additional people up around each ‘Key’. Make the space needed so everyone can see when you push the hand of the lead key. Also space people out so you can reach all the keys easily!

Practice again by playing the keyboard and doing a Scale.

Play the keyboard!

Get different people to play the keyboard.

LEVEL 2 – Tiny songs

As above, with these adaptations:

After the Demo with 8 people, or after the activity above:

Split the group into teams – of 9 or more.
Each Team has 10-15’ to create and practice a short piece of music, 30s-1’ long.

Performances 

LEVEL 3 – Making Music

As above, with these adaptations:

You can have multiple keyboard players.
You can also have a singer, or group of singers, playing alongside the piano.

You could combine with the Human Sampler!

Participants are given 30’ or so to create a piece of music – original or an existing song, to perform.

comments for facilitators

This is anything from a short intro/icebreaker, to a full session creating a piece of music. This all depends on the group and the facilitators.
Similar to the Human Sampler, but with more musicality/skill.