It’s group week here at my studio… which means I have new games to share! I apologize for the lack of new posts as of late. The last few months I’ve been juggling a rather hefty list of “to-do’s” as a teacher, accompanist and event chairperson for a couple of local associations. Between those responsibilities and a wonderful trip to New York for last … Continue reading
Another new year is upon us! As we draw to the end of 2011, I want to say a big “thank you” to all of my online friends and colleagues. It is such a blessing and inspiration to be a part of such a creative community of teachers. Thanks for sharing all of your feedback and ideas! Just for fun… here’s a look back … Continue reading
I ran across this quote last week, and thought it was a perfect sentiment for all of us as we wind down another semester: “In seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy.” ~William Blake Sometimes, in the middle of all of the teaching and learning we try to cram into our students’ years, it’s important to remember to fit in time to enjoy all … Continue reading
Are you looking for some fun Christmas-themed games and activities to use in lessons and group classes this month? Or something new and different to keep your student engaged and motivated through these last few weeks of the semester? Over the last couple of years, I’ve posted a number of Christmas games, worksheets and resources. You have to do a bit of hunting through … Continue reading
Given a set of lyrics, students must find the matching rhythm card. Words and rhythms from familiar Christmas songs and carols. Continue reading
Reader Bethany Ostler wrote to me this week and gave me permission to share this fun winter-themed composing worksheet she created: Students can choose an idea from the sheet and use the lyrics given to create the first line of a composition, then add several more lines of their own. Some students might also choose to use the ideas as an inspiration for a … Continue reading
It’s time for Christmas games! This week is the last group week of the semester in my studio, and we’ve been doing all of our theory with a holiday twist. Here’s the first of several games and activities I created for this month’s group. Trim the Tree is a simple game to drill note identification. Students get a stack of ornaments with pictured notes, then … Continue reading
As I was working on putting together lesson plans over the weekend, I ran across this fantastic site that has a TON of Halloween-themed songs, games and activities: In addition to Halloween, there are several resources for upcoming months: colored leaves cards I’m planning to use next month, and also some Christmas activities. There are also a number of “anytime” games to play with your … Continue reading
Here’s another simple elementary theory game for Halloween week. My elementary groups are reviewing steps and skips this month, and I came up with the idea to turn my entire studio floor into a gameboard… with a holiday twist. I picked up a package of black paper plates from the party aisle at my local store, and taped a pumpkin graphic on each one … Continue reading
I really like to use the words of familiar songs or catchy phrases to reinforce rhythm concepts. Students naturally speak in rhythm, whether they’re aware of it or not, so it’s a great way to relate a “new” rhythm concept to something they already know. Interestingly, I also find that choosing the right rhythm to go with lyrics is one of the hardest challenges for … Continue reading