[HANASHIR:6757] Re: K-6 sunday school music

[Ketzev2 <Ketzev2...>]

Hey there all--

Now that we're "back in the saddle" so to speak here in Birmingham, AL, I too 
have to be creative in the classroom to re-motivate the kids. It's a never 
ending job...

A couple of things....

1.) Rent "Mr Holland's Opus" at you favorite video store, and watch it! I 
have made this a ritual for the last three years. It reminds me of what, and 
who, are important in my classroom. And more importantly for me, tells me 
that music style(s) and "beat" are the key to what "cool" songs and music for 
these kids. I need to remember that if the song has a great hook, they'll 
sing it. Promise, it seems to work every time. A great song (maybe "Not By 
Might", "Or Zarua", etc) with a great beat that is presented with enthusiam, 
works for  them, and me virtually every time. If you have a few of these 
"favorites" of theirs to use things need a boost, then you have a safety 
valve when it's needed. Then you can introduce other Jewish curriculum to 
them. But you've got top get them hooked, like Mr Holland did. They will 
start to see and hear that there IS "cool" Jewish music and they can get into 
it!

2.) Learn as much NEW music as possible!  This will keep YOU fresh. Teaching 
can sometimes be difficult for us and for the kids if we're not excited and 
challenged at the same time. I am always listening and looking for great new 
tunes. They are our "tools" for success. The more songs you have to share and 
teach, the more fun it is for the kids in the long run.

3.) Lastly- Learn and listen to new music in different ways that will excite 
your kids. Try to imagine ways to interact with the music--movement, 
clapping, shakers, dancing, acting the songs out, whatever it takes,...etc. 
Songleading tricks and styles should be occassionally used to mix it up in 
the classroom. I would not rely totally on these  types of songs, but they 
are useful at the appropriate time. Hold their "favorite ditty" out like a 
carrot for the end of the class. They  will usually respond to that method. 
And perhaps most important...Don't let the grade teachers off the hook!! They 
MUST participate in music class, sitting WITH their kids...This is very 
essential. Not only do we teach music and music histoty, but Community as 
well. The teachers are a part of our community. Ask the Religious School 
principal for help if the teachers are "checking out" during music class. 
They have to be a part of it.  

There is always more to write on this I'm sure, but that's my take on this 
topic for now...

Steve Dropkin
singer/songwriter/performer/teacher
Birmingham, AL

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