The Rhythm of Somalia Wednesday, February 26, 2025
recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral & Classroom Music Specialists
The Rhythm of Somalia: A Collection of Songs, Stories, and Traditions by Qorsho Hassan & Becca Buck
“The Rhythm of Somalia” is a delightful collection of songs, games, and stories of the Somali people, as shared by more than a dozen elementary students and families living in the metro region of Minnesota where authors Qorsho Hassan and Becca Buck teach.
Like the other books in the World Music Initiative series, this collection provides important historical and cultural context for each song or game, along with photographs and illustrations, offering a glimpse into the depth and beauty of Somali culture and its traditions.
Each selection includes notation, translations, phonetic pronunciations, and optional ideas for pedagogical extensions. The book’s companion website also features audio pronunciation guides, videos of the children sharing their songs and games, and links to additional online resources.
With themes of family, faith, tradition, and joy, the songs and games in this resource offer students, teachers, and parents the opportunity to engage with this beautiful culture and community in an authentic and culturally responsive way.
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About the Authors:
Jen Sper is a Choral Music Specialist here at Stanton’s Sheet Music. A native of Cincinnati, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College (now University) Conservatory of Music, and taught 7-12 choir, music theory, class piano, and drama in Southern Ohio before joining the Stanton’s team in 2006. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, Jen can also often be found exploring the exciting restaurant, brewery, and theater scenes in Columbus, wandering through the local metro parks, visiting family around the Great Lakes, or at home with her very friendly cat.
Lisa Springer joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2023. She taught middle and high school choirs for 27 years in addition to serving as Artistic Director of the Columbus Women’s Chorus. She holds degrees from Heidelberg University and Cleveland Institute of Music. She has enjoyed an extensive professional singing career and continues to perform in the greater Columbus area. During her free time, she enjoys spending time in southern Ohio playing with her grandchildren.