Spend the morning, the afternoon, or the whole day exploring music, nature, creativity, and science in the beautiful Beatrix Farrand Garden. Children may register for the morning session, the afternoon session, or enjoy the full day of discovery.

Morning Session (9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.) - Drums in the Garden with Spero

Kids will enjoy hands-on traditional rhythms from West Africa through drumming, movement, storytelling, and games. Kids will play authentic hand drums, learn to make music together, and experience making music outdoors in nature.

Highlights include:

🥁 Learning adapted traditional rhythms from West Africa on authentic hand drums
🌿 Exploring rhythm in nature
💃 Movement and rhythm games
🎵 Group music-making
🌼 Building confidence, teamwork, and creativity

About Spero

Spero is a musician, teaching artist, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist whose roots span Ohio, New Orleans, the Choctaw people of the Mississippi Delta, and the south shore of Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi, where she was raised. Her lifelong study of Sabar, a traditional drumming style of the Wolof people of Senegal, inspires engaging workshops that encourage children to learn through music, movement, and joyful participation. Spero regularly teaches at schools, farms, nonprofits, and community organizations throughout the Northeast and is known for creating welcoming experiences where children and adults of all ages feel free to express themselves.

Lunch Break (12:00–1:00 p.m.)

Families whose children are attending both sessions are welcome to pack a lunch for their child to enjoy between sessions.

Afternoon Session (1:00–4:00 p.m.) - Living with Nature Workshop

Led by Pamela Brown, this immersive workshop combines ecology, building, gardening, art, and outdoor exploration. Young naturalists will investigate insects, birds, and plants while creating hands-on projects to take home. Whether children live in apartments, mini-farms, or suburban homes, they'll leave with a deeper understanding of—and appreciation for—the natural world around them.

Activities include:

🌱 Planting a container garden
🐝 Observing insects and building habitat for beneficial species
🎨 Creating botanical artwork
🐦 Learning bird identification and building a bird feeder
🔍 Using scientific observation tools to explore the Garden

Good to Know

Designed for children ages 9–12
Register for either session or both by registering online and completing the required permission slip
Parents or guardians are encouraged to remain on site
Families attending both sessions are welcome to bring a lunch to enjoy between 12:00–1:00 p.m.
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities
Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat
Rain or shine (covered space available if needed)

Come discover how music, creativity, nature, and community come together for a memorable day in the Garden.

Paid for in part by the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area.

Rhythm & Nature: A Day of Music & Nature for Ages 9–12

Rhythm & Nature: A Day of Music & Nature for Ages 9–12