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Inuit Instruments of Nunavut

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Inuit Instruments of Nunavut

Read the information and answer the questions. Then design an original frame drum inspired by what you learned. Be respectful: do not copy Inuit designs or suggest that your own design is an authentic Inuit object.

A drum with a story

Nunavut is a territory in northern Canada and is home to many Inuit communities. The qilaut is a traditional Inuit frame drum. It has a circular frame and a drum skin stretched across it. Traditionally, the skin could come from an animal such as a caribou or seal; materials and ways of making instruments can vary. A handle helps the player hold the drum. The player strikes the frame or drum skin with a beater, making a strong, resonant sound. Drumming, songs and dance can be part of community gatherings and cultural expression. Inuit cultures are diverse, and practices are not the same in every community. When learning about Inuit art and culture, notice how an object is made and used, and avoid treating one example as representing everyone.

Look closely and think like an artist

Use details from the information to answer Questions 1–6.

1.Which description best matches a qilaut?
  • A frame drum with a stretched drum skin
  • A string instrument played with a bow
  • A wind instrument with finger holes
  • A keyboard instrument with pedals
2.Name two parts of a qilaut described in the information.
3.Which material could traditionally be used for a qilaut’s drum skin?
  • Animal skin, such as caribou or seal
  • Plastic wrap only
  • Glass
  • Cardboard
4.Explain one way a qilaut makes sound. Include a detail about how it is played.
5.True or false: Every Inuit community uses instruments in exactly the same way.
TrueFalse
6.Give one respectful choice you can make when creating artwork inspired by learning about the qilaut.

Create an original instrument design

Design a fictional frame drum inspired by the qilaut’s circular form and sound-making parts. Make your design your own: invent a pattern, colour scheme and name rather than copying Inuit artwork. Label at least three features, including the frame, the drum surface and how the instrument is held or played.

7.Before you draw, plan your original instrument. What will you call it, what materials might your fictional design use, and what kind of sound do you want it to make?
Draw your instrument. Label the frame, drum surface and handle or playing method. Add an original pattern and colour choices.
8.Describe one visual choice you made in your design and explain how it helps communicate the sound or mood you imagined.

3 printable pages

  • Inuit Instruments of Nunavut, page 1 of 3: A drum with a story, Look closely and think like an artist

    Page 1

  • Inuit Instruments of Nunavut, page 2 of 3: Create an original instrument design

    Page 2

  • Inuit Instruments of Nunavut, page 3 of 3: 8. Describe one visual choice you made in your design and explain how it helps…

    Page 3

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