For two weeks this fall, German scholars of the Domgymnasium Verden shadowed members of the Slam Funk student band, partaking in a slice of American life.
The German/American Partnership Program sponsored the connection-building exchange. While visiting students went on group ventures to attractions like the Chicago Botanic Garden, most of their time was spent with Grayslake host families.
“We did the typical autumn activities; we went to a pumpkin patch and we went apple picking,” said Slam Funk singer senior Rory Dwyer. “My student got to experience the typical fall time in America around Halloween.”
The Germans’ arrival was the conclusion of a mutual exchange, as Slam Funk students had visited Germany to perform just this past summer. Trips through cultural hubs like Hamburg and Berlin were blended with more intimate looks at daily life.
“We got to see all the classes and see what German daily life is like because we got to stay with host families. It was like living real, normal life,” said Slam Funk vocalist junior Jeyvin Coleman. “Instead of going into the big areas, you get to feel what it’s like to live in suburban Germany.”
Slam Funk students perceived many novel occurrences throughout their travel experience. While more idiosyncratic were school institutions like the Goat Club, factors like the wide prevalence of English speakers revealed divergences between German culture and activities.
“I’d say the biggest thing was the use of public transportation. People took trains to get to school in the morning. Instead of everyone driving their own car, they would ride their bikes,” said Slam Funk saxophonist and senior Wade Wilson.
Despite these differences, many facets of modern life united each group of students. While the modern diffusion of technology and popular culture have taken strides towards a more global perspective, some aspects of humanity transcend national boundaries.
“Everybody can communicate. Whether language is the same or not, we’re different but we’re also all the same. Even the interactions I had with people who didn’t speak English were all really positive because smiling is so universal, and we can understand each other’s kindness without even speaking,” Dwyer said.
The Slam Funk band is traversing its own journey of extending connections as they enter the new year.
“We’re kind of taking a victory lap from Germany. We did Germany, now the future after that is gathering members to see if we can keep it alive because most of the people who are in the band right now are seniors and are leaving next year,” Coleman said. “We’re now trying to find ways to keep the band going.”
The band continues to pursue traditional patterns of performance.
“We’re looking for more live performances around the community and maybe around the school to continue what we did last year. We’re playing at jazz night coming up and holiday night as well in December,” Wilson said.
