Amidst the festivities of the ongoing 15th Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF), visitors as young as six found their groove at the ‘Universal Rhymes’ workshop held on Tuesday morning. During the customary school visits to SCRF, accompanying children delved into the vibrant world of music, eager to explore rhythms from around the globe.

Under the expert guidance of seasoned instructors, the workshop became a playground of sound, with youngsters immersing themselves in the beats of Africa and Brazil. From the infectious pulse of the Djembe to the cheerful jingle of the Tambourine, they experienced firsthand the magic of music-making.

During the session, the young participants responded to rhythms with their own unique improvisations, from the spirited Samba to the heartfelt melodies of Ghana. Through this collective exploration, they not only honed their musical skills but also explored a new way to forge bonds of camaraderie with their peers.

A particularly memorable moment arose when each child took on the role of conductor, leading their peers in a symphony of sound. This exercise not only showcased their growing confidence but also instilled valuable lessons in leadership and teamwork.

Reflecting on the workshop’s success, Maria Thomas, one of the organisers, shared her enthusiasm, “It’s truly inspiring to see children connect so deeply with music from different cultures. Their natural talent and willingness to lead are remarkable. Learning to play an instrument is as much a journey of personal growth and well-being as it is a hobby.”

SCRF, the largest celebration of knowledge, creativity, art, and innovation of its kind in the region, will take place in Expo Centre Sharjah from May 1 to 12 and carries the slogan ‘Once Upon a Hero’. More than 1,500 cultural, artistic, and edutainment activities by 190 guests from 25 countries, along with 470 publishers from 75 countries, have set the stage for boundless explorations and creative expression at SCRF 2024.