STOMP Body Percussion

A family sits together holding colourful plastic percussion tubes, with young children watching closely, at Camp Kindling

STOMP BODY PERCUSSION

Clap, click, stamp and step until the whole family sounds like one big band. No instruments needed, just the ones you were born with.

What is STOMP body percussion?

STOMP body percussion is a high-energy way of making music using only your body. Clapping, clicking, stamping, stepping and patting your legs and chest all become instruments, and so does your voice. Inspired by stage shows where performers turn rhythm into a spectacle, a group layers these sounds into big, exciting grooves, with lots of movement thrown in.

What sounds can your body make?

More than you might think. A flat clap is bright and sharp, while a cupped clap sounds deeper, like a small drum. Patting your thighs gives a soft thud, and tapping your chest makes a low, round beat. Stamps and steps on the ground are your bass drum, and finger clicks add a crisp top note. Then there's your voice, from a simple boom and tss to clicks and chants. Put them together and you have a whole drum kit.

Where does body percussion come from?

People all over the world have made music with their bodies for a very long time. Gumboot dancing from South Africa uses stamps and slaps on wellington boots. Stepping, a tradition of African American university groups, combines stamps, claps and chants into powerful routines. Flamenco from Spain has its own rhythmic clapping called palmas. Modern stage shows have brought these ideas together and added a big dose of theatre.

What happens at a first body percussion session?

Your Activity Leader starts with a warm-up of simple claps and stamps to find a steady beat together. Then you learn short patterns by copying, often in call and response, where the leader plays a rhythm and the group plays it back. The group splits into parts, each with its own pattern, and layers them up. Movement and stepping come in next, and by the end you'll have a short routine that looks and sounds fantastic.

Is body percussion good for kids?

Yes, and it's brilliant for all ages. There's nothing to hold, carry or break, so everyone can join in straight away. Children love the energy and the chance to be loud, while the patterns gently build co-ordination, listening and teamwork. It's a real confidence boost to hear a group sound so good together. Best of all, you can keep practising anywhere, as you'll always have your instrument with you.

FAQ

DO WE NEED ANY MUSICAL EXPERIENCE?

Not at all. Every rhythm is taught by copying, and there are no instruments to learn.

IS BODY PERCUSSION SAFE?

Energetic stepping and movement can lead to trips, collisions or minor strains. Leave plenty of space around you, wear trainers with a good grip and follow your Activity Leader's lead. Do not stamp or clap harder than feels comfortable, and do not step into anyone else's space.