World Music Podcasting Challenge

Webquest & Podcast

Research and Presentation Task

Imagine:  You have been asked by a local radio station to host a show celebrating musical cultures from around the world. 

You may ask a friend to co-host. The show will run for around 5-7 minutes and you should have a main country that you explored and introduce 3-5 other countries briefly with some interesting facts, names of instruments, and any traditional music styles. 

To support your facts you are also asked to play several short examples of music each country you discuss. 

Avoid 'Essentialism' by stating that this is only one example of music that exists in these countries. 


Part 1. Research the music of one country. You will submit this part of your assignment.

Using sources like Oxford Music Online and Britannica, research the music of different cultures around the world. Avoid citations and quotes from Wikipaedia, but you can start there to get some ideas.

Brazil Ireland Spain  Russia India Greece Cuba China Thailand Zimbabwe Vietnam Israel Egypt Germany Poland Mexico Turkey Botswana Latvia Tibet Papua New Guinea 


Research guide questions

Name the country:                                                 Your Name:

1. What is the traditional music of your chosen country called? Are there different types of traditional music? 

2. Name at 3-7 instruments that are used in the traditional music of your chosen country. * Include YouTube Links to show your class mates what the instruments look and sound like.

3. Draw (if you can, or import) a picture of and describe how someone would play one of the traditional instruments. Describe the materials used to make this instrument? 

4. Do you like the style of music? Explain why or why not using musical terminology. *Suggestion: Refer to a YouTube recording and complete a listening log.

5. Explain briefly the history behind the traditional music of that country-for example how and where did the music originate and at what time? 

6. Do you think the countries wealth had an impact on the kind of instruments that are traditionally used? Explain why. 

7. Does this country's music have any influence on Western music today? (For example: rap, funk, techno, and dance music have been influenced by African drumming). Explain why. 

8. Does another country have similar traditional music? If so, which one and how is it similar? 

9. Have any of the instruments been “Westernised”? For example, the simple acoustic guitar played in many countries has been “Westernised' into electric guitar we know today. 

10. Write a short Biography (one paragraph) of a musician who plays this traditional music. 

11. Does the country have a traditional costume that is worn during the performance of music? Include a picture.

12. Is there a particular piece of music that is used for special ceremonies or events? 

13. How are children taught the music? Is there any written notation? 14. Include a Bibliography at the end of your assignment with a minimum of 3 resources used! One source must be Britannica online. You can also use Oxford Music Online and other search engines. 

You will be allocated some class time to complete this task, but will be expected to complete this research project on your own.


Part 2. Share your research findings with a partner and present to your class. 


5 Minute presentation with your partner: This is informal and not assessed. However it is good practice, and while you are watching your classmates you can think about the 3rd, 4th and 5th countries which you might like to showcase in your podcast.

Quick Tip: Record using Apple or Samsung Mobile Phone Headphones for better quality.

Share your podcast