One of the additional "jobs" I do is teach music one morning a week at a local Christian school. I teach grades 4-5, grade 6, middle school and high school. Right now I'm doing a unit on rhythm with the middle school and high school students and I thought I would share a few of things we're doing. A couple of weeks ago we watched the movie, "Stomp Out Loud". If you haven't already seen it, it is well worth the time and investment. It not only shows rhythm through the use of common items, but it's a wonderful example of collaborative playing.
To spin off that idea, I am teaching the students this rhythm exercise:
The reason I love this, is that it requires rhythm, steady beat and group participation. Not to mention that it's pure fun! I also think I might incorporate this in a group lesson with my teenage piano students. I think it would be a great way to enhance duet playing and reinforce steady beat.
This brought back memories...we used to do this "game" in the mess hall during meal time at summer camp when I was a kid! I can remember the year I finally got the rhythm and hand movements together- I was so proud of myself.
I'd never thought of incorporating it into group lessons- but that is a fantastic idea! Thanks so much for the great suggestion- and for bringing back good memories. :)
What a fun way to teach/reinforce rhythm!! I'm excited to try this at a group lesson. Once students have learned the basic game, it would be fun to give them new rhythms and let them choreograph new movements with the cup. Thanks for sharing!!
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ReplyDeleteThis brought back memories...we used to do this "game" in the mess hall during meal time at summer camp when I was a kid! I can remember the year I finally got the rhythm and hand movements together- I was so proud of myself.
ReplyDeleteI'd never thought of incorporating it into group lessons- but that is a fantastic idea! Thanks so much for the great suggestion- and for bringing back good memories. :)
What a fun way to teach/reinforce rhythm!! I'm excited to try this at a group lesson. Once students have learned the basic game, it would be fun to give them new rhythms and let them choreograph new movements with the cup. Thanks for sharing!!
ReplyDelete