KEARNEY, Neb. - Elementary school students in Central Nebraska are using the power of music to connect with older generations.

Retirement communities across Kearney sounded more like an African village following several musical performances by students on Tuesday afternoon. 

Meadowlark Elementary School’s Drum Circle visited Kinship Pointe Northridge and Memory Care Country House retirement communities where they performed several songs and even helped seniors play traditional African instruments.

"This experience is a wonderful opportunity for our students; it’s a chance for students to give back in a meaningful way while celebrating what they’ve learned," said Meadowlark music instructor Angela Wright.

The fourth and fifth-graders learned how to play various percussion instruments in music class throughout the school year leading up the drum line concert, which is one the school's last events before letting out for summer.