We worked on so many terrific elements of music this week in class! I am thrilled that so many families are completing (at least) their third consecutive session of Music Together with their child(ren). The children are used to the routine and classroom environment and are becoming skilled musicians! This week we improvised by simply replacing your child's name and the body part to tap in Jumpin' Josie. (In one class we improvised with Jim Along Josie on accident. Did anyone catch that?) We also improvised by changing Pease Porridge to some other type of food. This simple improvisation is also done on your CD.
We explored dynamic contrast this week with Jack in the Box and William Tells Ride. Using dynamic contrast in your daily routine can be a simple and effective way to capture your child's attention. Try singing directions softly to your child when you're feeling stressed and see if it makes you both feel better.
William Tells Ride is also a wonderful introduction to basic musical form. In class we did a different movement for each section (A,B,C,A). For older students write the letter and have them point to the different letter as they hear each section. Put the letters around the room and move to the A for the A section, B for the B section and C for the C section. If you have older children who are learning how to read and notate music assign a note or compose a rhythm pattern to tap along with each section.
Singing and Dancing to the popular song Let It Go was a blast this week! I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the little ones sing and move to the music. As your children grow it continues to be important for them to see you model good singing for them! Even if you do not feel you are a strong singer or dancer, keep modeling it!
We have used the CD to sing one part while we added an ostinato (repeated part) or a round with it. In the last few weeks of class we will attempt all of the parts without the help of the CD! Enjoy practicing at home and in the car this week!
Just for fun!
