STUDENT REFLECTIONS
"Umoja has been a great experience in my life. From the first day I saw them perform, I wanted to become a part of it. Umoja has improved my musical abilites and I learned how to play many traditional African and South American instruments. I would encourage each and every person to audition and become a part of it. I will miss Mrs. Hinz and Umoja so much, but I will never forget the friendships and memories made. Thank you!"
- Amira Muftah "This was one of the most fun years of my life! Mrs. Hinz made each practice and concert enjoyable. I learned that drumming is something that I will continue to do for the rest of my life. Thank you for all the memories!" - Jasnoor Guliani "This year was my last year in elementary school and Umoja. The year was a good one to end on. I'd like to thank all the students, teachers, and most importantly, Mrs. Hinz for being an amazing music teacher and role model!" - Connor Franklin "This year I learned that friendships can be really strong, practice makes perfect, and how be true to myself and express myself. I enjoyed being in Umoja because I made many new friendships. Playing the drum made me feel so happy and always brightened my day. Thank you for letting me be in Umoja. It was amazing!" - Jenna Hamilton "My experience with the group this year was amazing! Between the group's first show to the tour in Saskatoon, it was all a blast. What made it even better was spending time with all the great teachers and group members. This year, I learned how to play a fabulous instrument and different music pieces, too. I enjoyed everything about Umoja and can't wait to participate next year! Thank you!" - Bianca Mamela "This was my second and final year of Umoja and it was so much fun! We learned teamwork, musical rhythms, and bettered our musical abilities. This was a great group and I wouldn't change a thing!" - Layne Kearns |
"Umoja has been a big part of my life. I've learned many things, including how to do some traditional dances and improve my musical abilites. I've enjoyed Umoja so much, from the time I used to come with my sister to today. I always wanted to be in this group and I was privileged enough to get in. I'm going to miss Umoja so much! It's sad to leave this part of my life behind, but I'll cherish the memory forever."
- Alanna Wong "I really enjoyed Umoja this year! We had a great time on trips and we all got to know each other. The group taught me how to be more confident and express myself through drumming. I had a really great time and hope I can come back next year!" - Jillian Toppings "This was my first year in Umoja so I learned many new things! I improved a great deal with keeping the beat and learning new rhythms. It was great to be involved in the group this year. It was even worth it to come at 8:00 in the morning to rehearse! I will always have this year's songs in my heart." - Shea Greggains "Umoja was an awesome experience! Not only did we play drums, but we went to Saskatoon and many other places to perform. It's fun to play and interact with others! Everyone helped me learn the songs, and if I was confused, they would walk me through it. Umoja was of the best experiences I had in grade 8!" - Melanie Luu "Umoja has been a big part of my last years of elementary school. Every 8:00 AM practice was always a great start to my day. I am very grateful that Mrs. Hinz organized Umoja. If she didn't, I wouldn't have had such an amazing year. I will definitely miss Umoja the most of all the extra-curricular activities." - Melissa Bang "This year was excellent! I enjoyed the musical talent and group atmosphere. I felt that I improved in my drumming, Orff, and overall musical abilites. Personally, I would like to thank two wonderful teachers for an excellent year!" - Michael Lang |