|
|
|
|
|
|
The following are several programs that I can give to groups that would meet once or twice during a residency. These plans are easily adapted to age/skill level of the participants, also programs can be tailored to extend specific curricular units. Any of these programs could also be given in an open community-invited setting.
Resources:
SUPPLIES:
None
SPACE REQUIRED:
Classroom, chairs for older students, adults, space to move in for dance sessions.
SPECIAL EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:
None
Activities:
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT EXTRAVAGANZA - This session includes an introduction and brief history of many instruments: Banjo, guitar, mandolin, fiddle, harmonica. I play each, teach simple sing along songs, tell a few bad jokes and manage to explain some easy to grasp physics of how the sound is produced. Also included is an explanation of how many different cultural groups have contributed to "American" music. Focus area topics could include: ballads, animal songs, cowboy songs, regions of the U.S., historical time periods, labor songs, 1920's sheet music.
LAURA'S LITTLE HOUSE- Bring the adventures of Laura Ingalls Wilder to life by learning the stories behind and singing the songs mentioned in the Little House series books. Also included are simple folk dances and "play party" movement games that were popular during the 1800's , such as "The Miller" and "Oats, Peas, Beans and Barley."
WEIRD AND WACKY WORKSHOP- This program allows students to see and play unusual or home-made instruments including pianolin, dulcimer, autoharp, nose flute, jaw harp, banjulele, button accordion, cakepan and cigar box guitars. Students will learn about how and why these instruments were produced and have a better appreciation of what folks did for entertainment in the dark days before radio/TV.
OUTCOMES:
NEW KNOWLEDGE
By the end of an exposure group session participants will have learned:
- Many groups have contributed to "American" music
- All stringed instruments amplify the their sting vibrations in some manner
- Before broadcast media, the only way to get music was to play it yourself
INCREASED SKILLS
By the end of an exposure group session participants will be able to:
- Remember and sing at least one new song
- Better distinguish between high and low pitches
- Sing as part of a group
CHANGE IN ATTITUDE
By the end of an exposure group session participants may come to realize that:
- Instrument building requires the interplay of mathematical, scientific and artistic skills
- Playing a musical instrument for pleasure is very satisfying
- Music is a part of every culture every where in the world
- Singing as part of a group is a lot of fun
- You are never too young or old to learn to play an instrument
Return to Mike' Homepage