1. Begin with echoing rhythms. I say rhythms (in 4/4), they echo rhythms. Instead of clapping like I usually do, I ask students to pantomime playing alternating mallets in the air. For half notes, they only play once and wait for the instrument to ring. (This is a tricky concept sometimes!)
2. Do this form:
Me: "ta-a ti-ti ta"
Students: "ta-a ti-ti ta"
Me: "ta-a ti-ti ta"
Students: "ta-a ti-ti ta"
All say together: Listen to the rhythm now.
To the right, we all know how.
Repeat form of above with new rhythm:
Me: I say rhythm
Students: Echo rhythm
Me: I say rhythm
Students: Echo rhythm
All say together: Listen to the rhythm now.
To the right, we all know how.
3. After practicing this a few times, have students stand in a circle on the floor. Put at least 3 mallet percussion instruments equidistant from each other in front of 3 of the students. I have three:
temple blocks
tubano
suspended cymbal
The kids get excited about playing these, because since I only have one of each, we hardly ever get to use them.
temple blocks
tubano
suspended cymbal
The kids get excited about playing these, because since I only have one of each, we hardly ever get to use them.
Do the form above - students without an instrument pantomime alternate mallets, and students with instruments in front of them will actually pick up the mallets and play.
When everyone says: "Listen to the rhythm now. To the right, we all know how," all students step once to the right. 3 different students now pick up mallets.
Continue until all students have played all 3 instruments.
