If you have a curious and musical child, get yourselves to Groovy Tunes at ArtPlay.
Groovy Tunes at ArtPlay is a joyful music and movement workshop led by the talented master drummer and multi-instrumentalist Kofi Kunpke. This interactive event is an unforgettable way to bond with your child while immersing in the vibrant rhythms and melodies of West Africa.
Groovy Tunes ArtPlay Melbourne
Each Groovy Tunes session is led by Kofi Kunkpe, who hails from Cape Coast, Ghana. Kofi brings his rich cultural heritage to life through drumming, singing, and dancing.
Children are introduced to musical instruments that are traditional to Ghana in West Africa where Kofi hails from.
Dressed in brightly coloured Ankara fabric, Kofi has dressed the space with a backdrop depicting a traditional scene and laid his stage with exotic instruments and artisan crafts, creating a warm and inviting West African atmosphere for the workshop to take place
Many of the kids start out the session shy but curious and my two kids are no exception.
Together with your child, you’ll groove to infectious beats, try pint-sized percussion instruments, and learn songs that you can sing at home to keep the musical magic alive.
The workshop also includes amplified sound, creating an immersive experience that will have you and your little one tapping your feet and swaying to the rhythm.
It’s music, movement, and joy, all rolled into one!
Our Experience
As we enter, Kofi begins the session playing the kalimba accompanied with singing to welcome us. Then we are seated and with many of the children already picking up and tightly clinging onto the colourful kiss kass (shakers).
Kofi playfully demonstrates the skill required to stack multiple bolga baskets on his head with very few toddlers volunteering to try the activity themselves!
Soon enough the most curious saunter right up to Kofi to take a closer look at the instruments and even to have a play or dance themselves.
Then it’s time for group participation! Kofi leads carers and kids through some pint-sized percussion on the djembe (drums) and shakers that he has set in front of us.
The beats are easy-to-follow and catchy; most of the children join in, curiously at first with a pat of the drums or shaking the shakers.
Who’s It For?
Groovy Tunes offers age-appropriate sessions tailored to three specific age groups:
- 14 to 24 months: Introduce your toddler to the joy of music in a gentle, supportive environment.
- 2 to 5 years: Perfect for pre-schoolers eager to explore rhythm and movement.
- 5 to 7 years: Engage your older child in dynamic drumming and song, fostering creativity and self-expression.
On the Day
- Doors open at 10am: A friendly staff member will greet you, tick your name off the list, and guide you to the facilities.
- Welcome and introduction: Once everyone has arrived, staff will give a brief overview before leading you into the workshop space.
- Enjoy the session: Get ready to sing, dance, and drum alongside Kofi and other families in this uplifting experience.
- Visit the Front Gallery: ArtPlay hosts a seasonal free exhibition in their front gallery. Read our review of the current Rain Exhibition.
Important Details
- Cost: $15 per child. Bookings are essential, and accompanying adults attend for free.
- Location: ArtPlay, Birrarung Marr (behind Federation Square), Melbourne VIC 3000.
- Accessibility: ArtPlay offers step-free access, ground-floor rooms, an accessible bathroom with baby-changing facilities, and staff ready to assist. If you have specific needs or allergies, you can email artplay@melbourne.vic.gov.au or call 03 9658 7880 in advance.
Don’t forget to stop by the ArtPlay playground before or after your visit.
Rain Exhibition
The Rain Exhibition at ArtPlay Melbourne is a delightful interactive adventure designed for families with young children aged 0 to 5. The exhibition runs from Thursday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm, and is entirely free with no bookings required.
The dimly lit space creates a captivating atmosphere where children can explore features like reflective puddles and tactile felt pieces.
Getting There
ArtPlay is conveniently located and easy to reach:
- Train: Flinders Street Station is a short walk away.
- Tram: Catch routes 35, 70, or 75 to stop #5 (Swanston St/Flinders St) or stop #6 (Russell St/Flinders St). Alternatively, any Swanston Street tram will take you to stop #13 (Federation Square).
- Car: The closest parking is available at Wilson Parking, you can pre-book a carpark at Federation Square.
Explore More at ArtPlay
ArtPlay is a creative haven for families, offering an ever-changing lineup of events and workshops designed to inspire both kids and adults. From painting and storytelling to interactive performances, ArtPlay makes art accessible and fun for all ages. Check their website regularly to discover what’s coming up next.
So grab your little one, and let’s groove to some Ghanaian beats! Secure your spot today—bookings are essential.
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