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Whacking Away |
Practicing the Pitches
Over the years, beginning with kindergarten, students at Martinez Elementary School learn the elements of music. So by the 5th grade, they know rhythm, they know pitch names, they know how to balance their sound against the other players or singers.
In 5th grade then, the goals in music class are for them to put it all together, reading pitches and rhythm patterns, and to think musically to produce a pleasing sound, as they play ensembles. More independence will be required of them in middle school, so I try to step away, to encourage that independence. |
Reading the Notes |
Playing Ensembles
Boomwhackers are wonderful instruments which are fun to play, while at the same time allowing a class to play melodies and/or harmonies. While using them, students can practice reading just one pitch at a time, concentrating on just that one line or space, then trade and practice a different note.
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Mrs. Greer plays with class |
Performing in Groups
Teachers enjoy hearing their students perform. One teacher expressed an interest in playing, and even grabbed a Boomwhacker to play with us. She didn't know how to read music, or when to play the Boomwhacker, but a student taught her the part. It's a really good feeling for students to be able to teach their teacher something! |
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Cooperative Learning |
Putting It Together
Sometimes I give students a piece of music they have never heard and ask them to figure out how to play it. It's quite a challenge for most of them. They know the pitches and the rhythms; but it takes thinking, practice, and yes, a little help from their friends to make it work.
In this example, students worked in pairs, two students per xylophone, to learn "Kyrie", a round from Suriname. We said the rhythm together, and I reivewed the patterns in the piece which would make it easy to play. It was still a challenge for many of them, but they were proud of themselves when they got it right.
Listen to the Kyrie. |
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