Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Samba drumming for year 4

Sharing clips of choirs


I've decided to link to a range of different school choirs to show my classes the variety of school singing that is going on across the world. First up is Wotton Basset who are signing their song. looks and sounds great!

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Samba drumming for year 4


We had a great samba workshop on Friday courtesy of Merton Music Foundation's "Wider Opportunities" program. The marvellous Mags enthralled pupils with tales of slavery, rebellion and powerful rhythms. I am in the process of creating a powerpoint about the history of Samba which i will put up soon. In the meanwhile here is a clip from the BBC showing a young lad in Rio de Janeiro attending samba school. Follow 12 year old Jonas by clicking here

Monday, September 19, 2011

Using picture books

I recently discovered the joy of using picture books with key stage 1 to explore timbre, rhythm, pulse and pitch. I have dug out a selection of about 6 books that I love and have found ways to explore musical elements. I know good primary school teachers have probably being doing this for years but it has only just occurred to me! I plan to photograph the different books I use during the term with the instruments the class select.

The choir practising Siya Humba


I've posted this video to help the choir prepare for their performance this Wednesday. Their choir leader is away looking after a new born child so the choir are currently leaderless. That has not stopped them as they are now preparing to take responsibility for leading them selves. The talented Caroline is giving them some helpful guidance. I have posted this video so they can watch themselves in order to evaluate their rehearsal & remind themselves of Carolines guidance.

Using video isn't always about capturing a good "performance". I am hoping that in this instance it will be a useful tool for the choir to develop their own leadership. They are performing by themselves this Wednesday without an adult to conduct them. Wish them luck!

Friday, September 16, 2011

How Djembe drums are made


These are video clips I will be showing year 5 & 6 as the plenary to djembe lesson 2

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Guide to the orchestra.

Thanks to Alan Mills for pointing out this resource.


Thanks to @ICTmagic on twitter for pointing out this brilliant ball dropping game.

Friday, September 9, 2011

I have a classroom!



I am incredibly excited! I have just started teaching music 2 days a week at St Teresa's school. They have have created a wonderful music room that is fit for purpose. There is wi fi, access to youtube , 15 netbooks and an interactive whiteboard. But even more importantly there is a senior management team who are committed to providing a creative and engaging curriculum for EVERY child. Looking forward to Monday!