[HANASHIR:14562] Re: requests

[Ellen Allard <ellen...>]

Dear Beth (and others who work with young children),

 

A technique for using rhythm instruments with young children involves
songs that have two sections, an A and a B section. Once the children
recognize the two distinct sections (usually either the lyrics tell them
which are the two different sections or the music is different enough
that it helps to differentiate the sections), you can assign a group of
children to be the rhythm band. They are instructed to only play on one
of the sections (either the A or the B section). Or you can have two
different rhythm bands, one plays on the A section, one plays on the B
section. This helps the children focus and pay attention, as they want
to make sure to play their instruments at the right time. If per chance
you have enough instruments for each student, then you can have everyone
play on one section and keep their instruments VERY still on the other
section. This does take some work, especially if the children haven't
worked with rhythm instruments before. There will always be one or more
who play the instruments when they're not supposed to (either
intentionally or not), or use them to bop other kids, so you really have
to work hard at helping them understand your rules when using the
instruments. 

 

By the way, a song with an A and a B section can simply be a song with
verses that alternate with the chorus. Or it can be a song that has the
form of ABA. I can't think of one off the top of my head (too early!).
But I think you get my drift.

 

Good luck!

 

All the best,

Ellen Allard

Worcester, MA

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Peter & Ellen Allard

Specializing in Music for Young Children

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