Author/Illustrator Studies

We're continuing to use books and illustrations to inspire our K-4 music-making. Some highlights:

1/2 classes enjoyed Lizard's Song by George Shannon, both listening to me read and supplying sound effects and singing when necessary (or fun). Elaine recommended the book to me (thanks, Elaine!); it illustrates how satisfying music can be both simple and personal.  Students then composed their own song lyrics based on what was near and dear to them. Subjects ranged from their parents and teachers to video games.

1/2 classes also studied the famous authors "Anonymous" and "Traditional," as collected by Iona Opie and illustrated by Rosemary Wells.
Because of their simple rhythms and interesting subject matter, nursery rhymes make great songs. We used Wee Willie Winkie as an inspiration for movement games and a simple song accompanied by Orff instruments.

Kindergartners have been their own illustrators as we prepare Au Clair de la Lune for their upcoming fête française. Students were especially captivated by Pierrot, the sad clown, and many dictated letters asking him not to be sad so he could tell jokes again. They had some excellent ideas for mood management techniques, as well!

We have been using this and other songs to experience and identify upward and downward pitch movement in music. Students especially loved improvising on the stepped glockenspiel while their classmates followed with movement.

3/4 classes have continued to use their haiku and the song Kagome, Kagome as musical fodder. We experienced a magical musical moment when some students, either by accident or on purpose, began the song a measure after others. Instead of chaos, it sounded gorgeous: the Kagome Canon was born! Students are accompanying themselves on Orff instruments, and learning about ostinati and pentatonic modes in the process.

We also used Opie and Wells' book to aid in learning our next recorder piece, "Cobbler, Cobbler". We will then use this piece as the basis for improvisations in the coming weeks. The kids are super excited about improvising after seeing the Rebirth Brass Band in action at our last field trip.