The newcomer children participating in the 'Free as a Songbird' project learn the Dutch language through singing and making music. Vocabulary, pronunciation, and sound formation are integrated throughout the lessons. The children learn our songs but also write their own songs and raps. This makes learning really fun!

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Our music method aligns with 'World Full of Words,' the language method used in many ISK classes (international bridging classes). The lessons are developed in collaboration with music teachers,  therapists, and language professionals. During 40 lessons, all kinds of usual topics are taught through the music.

 

In the summer of 2022, we organized two marvellous concerts. Syrian singer Mireille Bittar and Ukrainian singer-songwriter INOYSON performed at emergency shelter locations for refugees in Amsterdam South. They sang for the residents and conducted a successful workshop for refugee children.

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Also, in the summer of 2023, we organized workshops for refugee children in Amsterdam. In addition, we gave ten rewarding concerts at various locations of the OBA in Amsterdam. During these performances, songs were woven into a story and performed by professional singers together with a band.

 

We are working on a new dream: an online learning environment for all (appr.) 500 newcomer & asylum seeker center (AZC) schools in the Netherlands. Here, teachers, children, and parents can find our music method with songs to learn Dutch, singing exercises, videos, and educational games.

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As the first in the Netherlands, we offer videos with singing exercises specifically aimed at the sound formation of the language in newcomer education. With this platform, we provide education to as many as 10,000 children per year!

 

Let's empower more children together with the power of music!