Introducing various musicians to my students is always a fun process. They have probably heard "older" songs before but they don't know what kind of music it is or even who is performing. I want to give my students a bigger understanding of the world and introduce them to music they might not always listen… Continue reading Aretha Franklin
Category: Movement
Creative Movement – Shapes
I always begin my music lessons with a movement activity. This could be a folk dance, body percussion, steady beat listening, or just some good creative movement. Creative movement is my favorite of all; I love seeing my students personalities come out in their movements. I work hard to develop a feeling of safe space… Continue reading Creative Movement – Shapes
Engine Engine #9 Melody
Engine, Engine #9 is always a staple in my elementary music classroom. I use it every year, but needed a refresh this year. Check out my first post about this song to see how we started and what we did with rhythm reading. After doing the "Trains" with the Tubanos and rhythm cards we transferred… Continue reading Engine Engine #9 Melody
Leaf Man
Fall is a wonderful time when all the leaves are turning colors. I was worried that this year in Ohio we would miss out on the beautiful colors because of how hot it was for so long this year. But luckily, we just pushed our fall back a couple weeks and are now enjoying the… Continue reading Leaf Man
Mixing up the Meter
I am always striving to get my older kids engaged in meaningful ways. I want them to be as creative as they once were in their early years, but it becomes increasingly difficult to get them out of their shells. One method I always turn to is steady beat work, especially just moving around to… Continue reading Mixing up the Meter
Mallets, Music, Movement and More 