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2018-19 School Year
June
In the last weeks of school we are doing 'Celebrations' in music class. This is sharing of visual, performing, literary, dramatic arts. Students can bring art work from home, tell a joke, perform a skit, a song, a dance, share something from martial arts etc.
We also have a general music unit that uses centers or stations.
The last week of school will be finishing up the centers and singing and dancing our 'Greatest Hits' (favorites) of 2018-19.
May
Violin just finished for 4th and 5th.
Recorder for 3rd grade, also just finished that.
Ukulele unit for all grades going forward for next few weeks. I am excited about it!
Working on some all school songs.
January 2019
The Orchestra Swings: Link Up Concert
Audio
www.carnegiehall.org/Education/Educators/Link-Up/Resources/The-Orchestra-Swings
Scroll down to see audio options.
Student Guide
www.carnegiehall.org/-/media/CarnegieHall/Files/PDFs/Education/Educators/Link-Up/The-Orchestra-Swings/1819_The-Orchestra-Swings_Student-Guide.pdf?la=en
2017-18 School Year
May 2018
We are starting ukulele in 3rd, 4th, 5th grade. This will continue for a few weeks.
K/1/2 are learning about dynamics, and singing some songs we'll play on ukulele when they move into upper grades. Also learning about tempos (adagio, allegro, presto) and tempo changes.
All grades folk dancing.
April 2018
In 4th and 5th grades we are learning a little about how to play a clarinet. The instruments will be around for another week or so.
3rd grade started a storytelling unit. We'll learn about and recognize musical form, read musical rhythms and play rhythm on instruments. We're doing a jazz appreciation unit as well (April is Jazz appreciation month).
K/1/2 is working on a rhythm instrument reading activity, learning "My Shot" from Hamilton (for assembly on perseverance), incorporating parts of unit on Jazz appreciation.
February/March 2018
In January and February, 4th/5th grade students learned about and played violins. In April and March, these students will work with clarinets. They are really excited about it! 3rd grade students are playing recorder and have several songs they can pass off to demonstrate proficiency. K/1/2 is working on 2 part rhythm ostinato (Circle Round the Zero, Ida Red) and songs with verse and refrain.
January 2018
"What Can One Little Person Do?"
by Sally Rogers
childrensmusic.org/songs/peace/16/what-can-one-little-person-do
December 2017
In December, students in all grades are invited to perform or present something (visual, performing, literary art, etc). Many present or perform, others participate as audience members. We talk about skills involved in both.This month's dance is the Heel and Toe Polka (grades 2-5), for K/1 it is Niguno Shel Yossi. 4th/5th grades are learning about instruments from other cultures. 3rd grade is learning to classify instruments. All grades will be getting ready for sing along (December 20).
Talent Show!
During the next few weeks, students have the opportunity to share a song, poem, dance, painting, or drawing (visual, performing, literary art) of their choosing during their regularly scheduled music class time. Keep in mind there may be many people sharing so keep your performance or presentation to a minute or two. Here is a link to the Jacob Wismer Specials Schedule if that helps you remember what day your class's Talent Show is on! docs.google.com/a/beaverton.k12.or.us/spreadsheets/d/1_98bXBFRwMawwjb-lIzfAOxrF-DhVdsJjYxQzY7kzFo/edit?usp=sharing
November 2017
Drum circle! Students in all grades are getting to play the drums in music in October and November. We are reviewing rhythms and building our repertoire of rhythms we can perform and recognize. We continue to folk dance (I Let Her Go-Go, Chilili) and engage in other movement activities (Chicken on a Fencepost) that reinforce the rhythms we are studying.
October 2017
The year is off to a great start and it's been fun to reconnect with JW students from last year, and, to meet new students.
These first weeks in September and October we're doing a lot of singing and play party games (Yarnball, Night at the Museum, Lucy Locket, Skip to My Lou, Grizzly Bear, etc). The games are a fun way to establish routines and foster skills needed for working together. All the games involve many elements of music-singing, moving, rhythm keeping, performing alone and together.
September 2017
Welcome to Eagles Music at Jacob Wismer Elementary School with Ms. Belgique!
Each child comes with an individual set of experiences, strengths and skills. The goal of the music program at JW is to engage students through creating, performing, responding, and connecting to music. At Jacob Wismer, we aim to present a range of music, and to develop performing, listening and movement skills. Parent involvement is welcomed.
I appreciate being able to work with all of the students, staff and parents at Jacob Wismer and look forward to another great year.
Many thanks,
Maralyn Belgique
2016-17 School Year
June 2017
5th, 4th, 3rd, 2nd: This is the time of year we work on composing with guidelines. Students form small groups (up to 4 people, or may work by themselves). Groups select a picture and then instruments. The goal is to create a soundscape that matches the selected picture. We post all of the pictures (and add a couple to throw people off) on the board, then each group takes a turn to perform their 'soundscape'. After, the rest of the class tries to guess which picture was being represented. It's a popular lesson.
K/1st: We're doing one last new singing game, kids love "Doggie Doggie, Where's Your Bone?" It's an easy way to get students to sing by themselves. We also bring back any of the favorite games from the year.
All grades: practicing songs for our sing along
May 2017
5th, 4th, 3rd are learning to play ukulele. A typical class would include instruction on how to play a couple new chords, reviewing chords from previous week, playing through new and familiar songs, time to practice in small groups or by yourself, time for me to help small groups and individuals, and would end with the whole class playing through a couple tunes together.
K, 1st, 2nd--All did a unit on Jazz for Jazz Appreciation month. We read "When Louis Armstrong Taught Me Scat", watched Louis Armstrong singing and playing trumpet, Ella Fitzgerald and Mel Torme scatting, and created our own class scat. Last week we learned the Mexican Hat dance.
April 2017
5th/4th grade: trumpet for next 2 weeks. Students have been taught the basics of how to 'buzz' on their mouthpiece, how to play a C and a G, and now we are learning the fingerings for D,E,F. They'll have some time to choose and practice popular tunes from a packet I prepared. Next-ukulele.
K-3: xylophone technique. I have really enjoyed teaching this unit. It's helping our playing, making it musical and fun to listen to (instead of loud!) The kids are great listeners and participate even when tasks are challenging. We've learned tunes, and are working on playing accompaniments. We're also doing a bit of composing and transcribing (2nd/3rd) in preparation for a unit later in the year where students work in small groups and use these skills.
K/1-singing, moving, melodic contour.
February/March 2017
Learning Target - February
Effort/Collaboration-I can participate in lessons and show persistence when tasks are challenging.
Skills/Concepts-I can listen to, analyze, and describe music.
4th/5th-trumpet cart arrived February 27th. We learn about how to form a trumpet embouchure, how to get a sound out of just the mouthpiece, then put mouthpiece and trumpet together and learn to control the sound that comes out! The trumpet carts will be at Jacob Wismer until mid April. Also, we'll be working on learning numeric syllables for counting rhythms.
K-3rd-Our earlier projects using xylophones guided the decision to work on developing good technique for playing xylophones. This will be a unit that stretches out over 3 weeks. We're also learning a few songs that will be used as we learn to play the ukuleles (3rd grade). For St. Patrick's day, a Phyllis Weikert dance ("Irish Stew") set to Irish reels. All are playing a singing game called "Ida Red".
Many thanks to the PTO for supporting my classroom with funds to purchase supplies, instruments and curriculum.
January 2017
Learning Target - January
Effort/Collaboration-I follow instructions and music room procedures and take charge of my own learning.
Skills/Concepts-I can perform on instruments alone and with others.
4th/5th-Violins. For those that are new, the district has rolling carts of violins (30) and each school gets a 5-6 week time slot. 5th cover a little more ground as they've had violins in 4th grade. 4th graders are excited because it's new to them. We wrap up mid February. The kids have worked on holding violins, their bow grip and playing songs (Hot Cross Buns, Twinkle Star, etc).
3rd/2nd-Both grades have been studying expressive qualities of music (dynamics, tempo, articulation). 3rd grade playing recorders, 2nd grade playing xylophones.
K/1st-Working on Call and Response songs (Bill Grogan's Goat, Down By the Bay), getting into Valentine's day songs this week. Tempo changes-fast and slow. Xylophones-on a pentatonic scale (CDEGA). Kids doing great and excited to use instruments.
December 2016
5th grade-We're looking at accents in music (when notes are stressed or emphasized) by learning a dance called Troika.
4th, 3rd, 2nd grade- Learning about accelerando (when music gradually speeds up) and ritardando (when music gradually slows down). Both Sasha (familiar dance) and Troika (new dance) have an accelerando in them--it's a good way to learn this concept in your body before you play it on an instrument.
K/1-Tempo changes (fast vs slow) in singing, moving and playing instruments. Practicing rhythms with jingle bells. Patterned movement--preparation for folk dancing in later grades--using a dance called Niguno Shel Yossi.
All-practicing songs for sing along.
November 2016
5th grade-2 assessments for Theme and Variations (folk dance with variations in the D section) and a listening assessment. Playing a melody on the xylophones.
4th grade-Assess understanding of crescendo and decrescendo. Write an 8 beat pattern (kids and I call this Animal Rhythms--ask your student about this!).
3rd grade-Write an 8 beat pattern (kids and I call this Animal Rhythms--ask your student about this!). Did larger assessment at the beginning of the year.
2nd grade-Zoo-Rific singing program (15 Nov). Assess understanding of crescendo and decrescendo.
Grades 2-5 Folk dance, sing along prep (Dec 16).
K/1-Sing alone and together, match pitch while singing. Keeping the beat to recorded music. Today, a song called "I'm Walking around in the Leaves"...change 'walking' to other locomotor movements.
October 2016
5th grade-Theme and Variations
3rd and 4th grade-meter, bar lines, time signatures and measures in 2/4, 3/4, 4/4
2nd grade-AB (Binary form), beginning Zoo-Rific preparations (afternoon program on 11/15)
K and 1st-matching pitch, singing alone and together, keeping a steady beat.
All-Singing "This Land is Your Land", "Grand Old Flag", "Mrs. Murphy's Chowder"
2nd-5th-Moving: Sasha! (mixer dance), Goin' To Alberta (Circle dance using polka step).
2015-16 School Year
June 2016
To round out the year, just a little bit of the trumpets for the 4th and 5th grades. All grades- a song from The Music Man (I end the year with a musical). Grades 1-5: creating a soundscape to match a picture or poem (students work in small groups, choose instruments and compose music to represent the picture or poem).
May 2016
In 5th/4th grade, we worked on composing and arranging music within guidelines (students were asked to include an ostinato, a melody, and to use a poem as inspiration). Students chose instruments and worked in small groups to create a soundscape while poems were read. We are trying a bit of Taiko drumming techniques moving forward.
In 3rd and 2nd grade we are using recorders (had to cut recorders short for 3rd grade prior to the 3rd grade program so we're picking up where we left off and 2nd graders are just beginning). There are songs we can play with just 3 notes--B-A-G. We are also playing a singing game or two (The Noble Duke of York, Little Johnny Brown, Chicken on a Fencepost). All require singing voice, movement, memory, melodic elements, blending in and standing out--things we do in music all year long.
K and 1st--Using rhythm cards to clap or tap rhythms (with rhythm sticks), singing and moving to Old King Glory (singing voice, movement, taking turns, steady beat).
April 2016
Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade students have been working on singing voice (using games like "Cut the Cake" and "Oh My Aunt Came Back"), song memory, and rhythmic and melodic elements. 3rd grade did a fantastic job with their Wax Museum program. We've moved on to learning several chords on the ukulele and being able to play and sing at the same time. 4th and 5th grade students are finishing up the unit on ukuleles. Students learned 4-6 chords and easily 7-8+ songs. We also worked on improvising accompaniments, singing alone and with others, and reading chord charts and ukulele tablature.
March 2016
"Carnival of the Animals by Camille Saint-Saens": Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade students have been listening to a few selections each day and guessing what animal the song is about. Mini composer study about Saint-Saens. We are also studying ABA form with Ralph Vaughn Williams "March Past of the Kitchen Utensils". 3rd grade students are preparing for Wax Museum program. We're working on 5 songs that we'll be singing on Thursday, 17 March. 4th and 5th grade students finished up Violin unit and started playing ukuleles last week. Goal is to be able to play and sing several songs, and hear and play chord progressions on the ukulele.
January and February 2016
The violin carts arrived in early January. The violin cart comes with 30 violins/bow, and supplies. Students in grades 4 and 5 receive instruction in how to play the violin and most are able to play Hot Cross Buns by the end of the unit. 3rd grade students are learning to play the recorder. They are also working on songs for a vocal program to be presented March 17th that will coincide with Wax Museum presentations. K/1/2 students are using xylophones, drums and unpitched percussion instruments to create a sound piece to go with "Where The Wild Things Are" as well as additional activities to reinforce musical concepts like steady beat, high/low and fast/slow.
December 2015
For December, one of our learning targets is understanding how music relates to history and culture, which is one of the National Standards for Music Education. We are singing holiday music, learning a dance (K/1st/2nd students are learning "Light the Candles"; 5th/4th/3rd/ students are learning "The Little Shoemaker"), and listening to several selections from Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker.
November 2015
The 2nd grade is working on a vocal program of music called Zoo-Rific. It's a collection of six songs in four languages, each song describing an animal. 2nd graders are learning about what it takes to get a musical performance ready. Kindergarten and first grade are practicing keeping a steady beat and matching pitch through nursery rhymes, wordplays and movement activities. Last week, many students learned the Heel and Toe Polka in anticipation of the Barn Dance. Looking ahead, grades 3-5 will use xylophones, recorders, percussion, speech and movement to work on their skills in improvising and composing.
October 2015
This month, Mrs. Shuck and I are collaborating on a music program for 2nd grade students. 2nd graders, along with the Honor Choir will present the program on November 19th at 6:30pm here at JW. 5th graders are working on learning to recognize and play chord progression accompaniments. 3rd and 4th grade students are reviewing and extending their understanding of measures, bar lines, meter, note values and rhythms. All students in grades 2-5 have learned a longways set dance called Alabama Gal. Those who are in attendance, along with parents and younger siblings will have the chance to dance it at the PTO Barn Dance on November 6th. Kindergarteners and 1st grade students are learning about the four voices (whisper, talk, call, sing), loud/soft sounds, long/short sounds and in general learning the ropes of the music classroom (as for some half day kindergarteners, this is their first experience with it).
September 2015
Welcome. I am looking forward to the start of the school and excited to see everyone and begin music classes. I am thrilled to be working with Mrs. Shuck, our new music teacher at Jacob Wismer. I spent my summer relaxing and connecting with friends and family, and preparing for the coming school year. Now, I'm ready to get back to music classes. Can't wait to see you.
2014-15 School Year
June 2015
In all grades we are taking a broad look at classical music, it’s forms, styles, and history. We’re listening to examples of classical music (Eine Kleine Nachtmusik by W.A. Mozart, Peter and the Wolf by Prokofiev, The Entertainer by Scott Joplin—just to name a few) and talking about some of the more popular and well known composers and conductors.
May 2015
In 4th and 5th grade we are taking a look at trumpets and learning about the very basics of what it takes to play one. The trumpet instrument cart will be at Jacob Wismer from April 20-June 4. In 3rd grade we have begun ukuleles. There are lots of 2 chord songs we'll be singing and playing.
In 3rd, 2nd and 1st we are putting the finishing touches on our songs for Celebrate the Arts. After that, we'll be moving on to using classroom instruments (xylophones and other percussion instruments) with our singing and movement games and activities.
April 2015
The upper grades are working in small groups to arrange and perform songs on the ukulele. Some groups are learning songs that are new, some groups are reworking songs we've learned in class, some are thinking up original compositions. The emphasis is on playing together in ensembles, knowing the chords in your song, and executing chord changes.
The lower grades are learning Sansa Kroma (an Akan singing game from Ghana), A Qua Qua (originally from Jerusalem, a singing game much like "Down By the Banks"), and Round and Round (a circle game collected in the 70's from an island in the West Indies).
March 2015
In 4th and 5th grade we're playing ukulele--singing and playing songs that require only two chords--so that's been fun. We've got some new instruments in (unpitched percussion) and we've been using these in grades K-3. Singing and dancing games continue throughout.
February 2015
In music we've been teaching the violin unit. It's been 4th grade's first shot at it, and they're doing well. All are motivated and interested learners! This is the 2nd exposure for 5th graders and we see that in how they're making progress. 3rd grade students continue work on a musical about Portland. Students in grades K-2 have been learning a singing game called Mrs. Macaroni.
December 2014
Our learning targets for November were "I can improvise, compose or arrange music within a given framework at a capable level", and, "I participate in all parts of the lesson and show persistence when tasks are challenging". We did several readiness activities--games that involve rhythmic and tonal readiness and help students decode familiar and unfamiliar musical text/notation--to help us meet the first learning target. Moving forward, we'll be working more on reading and writing music.
Upper grades are singing a mix of patriotic songs. All grades will begin to include holiday/winter themed music in singing time. Third grade is working on the music from a play about Portland. Lower grades did November poems and a Thanksgiving canon and learned three songs (The Noble Duke of York, Little Johnny Brown, Old King Glory) that each involve a game/dance that we’ll add in December.
November 2014
A couple of weeks ago, the group Musicality Network (a consortium of music teachers in the area) came to play a concert for half of the students in 4th, 3rd, and 2nd grades. The other half of the students will hear the same group in January. Students really enjoyed the music they shared and lots of questions were answered about all the various instruments MN brought and demonstrated.
October 2014
Students in my music classes are working on learning Solfege, (which helps people sing on pitch and memorize music), rhythm notation, singing, reading music.
2018-19 School Year
June
In the last weeks of school we are doing 'Celebrations' in music class. This is sharing of visual, performing, literary, dramatic arts. Students can bring art work from home, tell a joke, perform a skit, a song, a dance, share something from martial arts etc.
We also have a general music unit that uses centers or stations.
The last week of school will be finishing up the centers and singing and dancing our 'Greatest Hits' (favorites) of 2018-19.
May
Violin just finished for 4th and 5th.
Recorder for 3rd grade, also just finished that.
Ukulele unit for all grades going forward for next few weeks. I am excited about it!
Working on some all school songs.
January 2019
The Orchestra Swings: Link Up Concert
Audio
www.carnegiehall.org/Education/Educators/Link-Up/Resources/The-Orchestra-Swings
Scroll down to see audio options.
Student Guide
www.carnegiehall.org/-/media/CarnegieHall/Files/PDFs/Education/Educators/Link-Up/The-Orchestra-Swings/1819_The-Orchestra-Swings_Student-Guide.pdf?la=en
2017-18 School Year
May 2018
We are starting ukulele in 3rd, 4th, 5th grade. This will continue for a few weeks.
K/1/2 are learning about dynamics, and singing some songs we'll play on ukulele when they move into upper grades. Also learning about tempos (adagio, allegro, presto) and tempo changes.
All grades folk dancing.
April 2018
In 4th and 5th grades we are learning a little about how to play a clarinet. The instruments will be around for another week or so.
3rd grade started a storytelling unit. We'll learn about and recognize musical form, read musical rhythms and play rhythm on instruments. We're doing a jazz appreciation unit as well (April is Jazz appreciation month).
K/1/2 is working on a rhythm instrument reading activity, learning "My Shot" from Hamilton (for assembly on perseverance), incorporating parts of unit on Jazz appreciation.
February/March 2018
In January and February, 4th/5th grade students learned about and played violins. In April and March, these students will work with clarinets. They are really excited about it! 3rd grade students are playing recorder and have several songs they can pass off to demonstrate proficiency. K/1/2 is working on 2 part rhythm ostinato (Circle Round the Zero, Ida Red) and songs with verse and refrain.
January 2018
"What Can One Little Person Do?"
by Sally Rogers
childrensmusic.org/songs/peace/16/what-can-one-little-person-do
December 2017
In December, students in all grades are invited to perform or present something (visual, performing, literary art, etc). Many present or perform, others participate as audience members. We talk about skills involved in both.This month's dance is the Heel and Toe Polka (grades 2-5), for K/1 it is Niguno Shel Yossi. 4th/5th grades are learning about instruments from other cultures. 3rd grade is learning to classify instruments. All grades will be getting ready for sing along (December 20).
Talent Show!
During the next few weeks, students have the opportunity to share a song, poem, dance, painting, or drawing (visual, performing, literary art) of their choosing during their regularly scheduled music class time. Keep in mind there may be many people sharing so keep your performance or presentation to a minute or two. Here is a link to the Jacob Wismer Specials Schedule if that helps you remember what day your class's Talent Show is on! docs.google.com/a/beaverton.k12.or.us/spreadsheets/d/1_98bXBFRwMawwjb-lIzfAOxrF-DhVdsJjYxQzY7kzFo/edit?usp=sharing
November 2017
Drum circle! Students in all grades are getting to play the drums in music in October and November. We are reviewing rhythms and building our repertoire of rhythms we can perform and recognize. We continue to folk dance (I Let Her Go-Go, Chilili) and engage in other movement activities (Chicken on a Fencepost) that reinforce the rhythms we are studying.
October 2017
The year is off to a great start and it's been fun to reconnect with JW students from last year, and, to meet new students.
These first weeks in September and October we're doing a lot of singing and play party games (Yarnball, Night at the Museum, Lucy Locket, Skip to My Lou, Grizzly Bear, etc). The games are a fun way to establish routines and foster skills needed for working together. All the games involve many elements of music-singing, moving, rhythm keeping, performing alone and together.
September 2017
Welcome to Eagles Music at Jacob Wismer Elementary School with Ms. Belgique!
Each child comes with an individual set of experiences, strengths and skills. The goal of the music program at JW is to engage students through creating, performing, responding, and connecting to music. At Jacob Wismer, we aim to present a range of music, and to develop performing, listening and movement skills. Parent involvement is welcomed.
I appreciate being able to work with all of the students, staff and parents at Jacob Wismer and look forward to another great year.
Many thanks,
Maralyn Belgique
2016-17 School Year
June 2017
5th, 4th, 3rd, 2nd: This is the time of year we work on composing with guidelines. Students form small groups (up to 4 people, or may work by themselves). Groups select a picture and then instruments. The goal is to create a soundscape that matches the selected picture. We post all of the pictures (and add a couple to throw people off) on the board, then each group takes a turn to perform their 'soundscape'. After, the rest of the class tries to guess which picture was being represented. It's a popular lesson.
K/1st: We're doing one last new singing game, kids love "Doggie Doggie, Where's Your Bone?" It's an easy way to get students to sing by themselves. We also bring back any of the favorite games from the year.
All grades: practicing songs for our sing along
May 2017
5th, 4th, 3rd are learning to play ukulele. A typical class would include instruction on how to play a couple new chords, reviewing chords from previous week, playing through new and familiar songs, time to practice in small groups or by yourself, time for me to help small groups and individuals, and would end with the whole class playing through a couple tunes together.
K, 1st, 2nd--All did a unit on Jazz for Jazz Appreciation month. We read "When Louis Armstrong Taught Me Scat", watched Louis Armstrong singing and playing trumpet, Ella Fitzgerald and Mel Torme scatting, and created our own class scat. Last week we learned the Mexican Hat dance.
April 2017
5th/4th grade: trumpet for next 2 weeks. Students have been taught the basics of how to 'buzz' on their mouthpiece, how to play a C and a G, and now we are learning the fingerings for D,E,F. They'll have some time to choose and practice popular tunes from a packet I prepared. Next-ukulele.
K-3: xylophone technique. I have really enjoyed teaching this unit. It's helping our playing, making it musical and fun to listen to (instead of loud!) The kids are great listeners and participate even when tasks are challenging. We've learned tunes, and are working on playing accompaniments. We're also doing a bit of composing and transcribing (2nd/3rd) in preparation for a unit later in the year where students work in small groups and use these skills.
K/1-singing, moving, melodic contour.
February/March 2017
Learning Target - February
Effort/Collaboration-I can participate in lessons and show persistence when tasks are challenging.
Skills/Concepts-I can listen to, analyze, and describe music.
4th/5th-trumpet cart arrived February 27th. We learn about how to form a trumpet embouchure, how to get a sound out of just the mouthpiece, then put mouthpiece and trumpet together and learn to control the sound that comes out! The trumpet carts will be at Jacob Wismer until mid April. Also, we'll be working on learning numeric syllables for counting rhythms.
K-3rd-Our earlier projects using xylophones guided the decision to work on developing good technique for playing xylophones. This will be a unit that stretches out over 3 weeks. We're also learning a few songs that will be used as we learn to play the ukuleles (3rd grade). For St. Patrick's day, a Phyllis Weikert dance ("Irish Stew") set to Irish reels. All are playing a singing game called "Ida Red".
Many thanks to the PTO for supporting my classroom with funds to purchase supplies, instruments and curriculum.
January 2017
Learning Target - January
Effort/Collaboration-I follow instructions and music room procedures and take charge of my own learning.
Skills/Concepts-I can perform on instruments alone and with others.
4th/5th-Violins. For those that are new, the district has rolling carts of violins (30) and each school gets a 5-6 week time slot. 5th cover a little more ground as they've had violins in 4th grade. 4th graders are excited because it's new to them. We wrap up mid February. The kids have worked on holding violins, their bow grip and playing songs (Hot Cross Buns, Twinkle Star, etc).
3rd/2nd-Both grades have been studying expressive qualities of music (dynamics, tempo, articulation). 3rd grade playing recorders, 2nd grade playing xylophones.
K/1st-Working on Call and Response songs (Bill Grogan's Goat, Down By the Bay), getting into Valentine's day songs this week. Tempo changes-fast and slow. Xylophones-on a pentatonic scale (CDEGA). Kids doing great and excited to use instruments.
December 2016
5th grade-We're looking at accents in music (when notes are stressed or emphasized) by learning a dance called Troika.
4th, 3rd, 2nd grade- Learning about accelerando (when music gradually speeds up) and ritardando (when music gradually slows down). Both Sasha (familiar dance) and Troika (new dance) have an accelerando in them--it's a good way to learn this concept in your body before you play it on an instrument.
K/1-Tempo changes (fast vs slow) in singing, moving and playing instruments. Practicing rhythms with jingle bells. Patterned movement--preparation for folk dancing in later grades--using a dance called Niguno Shel Yossi.
All-practicing songs for sing along.
November 2016
5th grade-2 assessments for Theme and Variations (folk dance with variations in the D section) and a listening assessment. Playing a melody on the xylophones.
4th grade-Assess understanding of crescendo and decrescendo. Write an 8 beat pattern (kids and I call this Animal Rhythms--ask your student about this!).
3rd grade-Write an 8 beat pattern (kids and I call this Animal Rhythms--ask your student about this!). Did larger assessment at the beginning of the year.
2nd grade-Zoo-Rific singing program (15 Nov). Assess understanding of crescendo and decrescendo.
Grades 2-5 Folk dance, sing along prep (Dec 16).
K/1-Sing alone and together, match pitch while singing. Keeping the beat to recorded music. Today, a song called "I'm Walking around in the Leaves"...change 'walking' to other locomotor movements.
October 2016
5th grade-Theme and Variations
3rd and 4th grade-meter, bar lines, time signatures and measures in 2/4, 3/4, 4/4
2nd grade-AB (Binary form), beginning Zoo-Rific preparations (afternoon program on 11/15)
K and 1st-matching pitch, singing alone and together, keeping a steady beat.
All-Singing "This Land is Your Land", "Grand Old Flag", "Mrs. Murphy's Chowder"
2nd-5th-Moving: Sasha! (mixer dance), Goin' To Alberta (Circle dance using polka step).
2015-16 School Year
June 2016
To round out the year, just a little bit of the trumpets for the 4th and 5th grades. All grades- a song from The Music Man (I end the year with a musical). Grades 1-5: creating a soundscape to match a picture or poem (students work in small groups, choose instruments and compose music to represent the picture or poem).
May 2016
In 5th/4th grade, we worked on composing and arranging music within guidelines (students were asked to include an ostinato, a melody, and to use a poem as inspiration). Students chose instruments and worked in small groups to create a soundscape while poems were read. We are trying a bit of Taiko drumming techniques moving forward.
In 3rd and 2nd grade we are using recorders (had to cut recorders short for 3rd grade prior to the 3rd grade program so we're picking up where we left off and 2nd graders are just beginning). There are songs we can play with just 3 notes--B-A-G. We are also playing a singing game or two (The Noble Duke of York, Little Johnny Brown, Chicken on a Fencepost). All require singing voice, movement, memory, melodic elements, blending in and standing out--things we do in music all year long.
K and 1st--Using rhythm cards to clap or tap rhythms (with rhythm sticks), singing and moving to Old King Glory (singing voice, movement, taking turns, steady beat).
April 2016
Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade students have been working on singing voice (using games like "Cut the Cake" and "Oh My Aunt Came Back"), song memory, and rhythmic and melodic elements. 3rd grade did a fantastic job with their Wax Museum program. We've moved on to learning several chords on the ukulele and being able to play and sing at the same time. 4th and 5th grade students are finishing up the unit on ukuleles. Students learned 4-6 chords and easily 7-8+ songs. We also worked on improvising accompaniments, singing alone and with others, and reading chord charts and ukulele tablature.
March 2016
"Carnival of the Animals by Camille Saint-Saens": Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade students have been listening to a few selections each day and guessing what animal the song is about. Mini composer study about Saint-Saens. We are also studying ABA form with Ralph Vaughn Williams "March Past of the Kitchen Utensils". 3rd grade students are preparing for Wax Museum program. We're working on 5 songs that we'll be singing on Thursday, 17 March. 4th and 5th grade students finished up Violin unit and started playing ukuleles last week. Goal is to be able to play and sing several songs, and hear and play chord progressions on the ukulele.
January and February 2016
The violin carts arrived in early January. The violin cart comes with 30 violins/bow, and supplies. Students in grades 4 and 5 receive instruction in how to play the violin and most are able to play Hot Cross Buns by the end of the unit. 3rd grade students are learning to play the recorder. They are also working on songs for a vocal program to be presented March 17th that will coincide with Wax Museum presentations. K/1/2 students are using xylophones, drums and unpitched percussion instruments to create a sound piece to go with "Where The Wild Things Are" as well as additional activities to reinforce musical concepts like steady beat, high/low and fast/slow.
December 2015
For December, one of our learning targets is understanding how music relates to history and culture, which is one of the National Standards for Music Education. We are singing holiday music, learning a dance (K/1st/2nd students are learning "Light the Candles"; 5th/4th/3rd/ students are learning "The Little Shoemaker"), and listening to several selections from Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker.
November 2015
The 2nd grade is working on a vocal program of music called Zoo-Rific. It's a collection of six songs in four languages, each song describing an animal. 2nd graders are learning about what it takes to get a musical performance ready. Kindergarten and first grade are practicing keeping a steady beat and matching pitch through nursery rhymes, wordplays and movement activities. Last week, many students learned the Heel and Toe Polka in anticipation of the Barn Dance. Looking ahead, grades 3-5 will use xylophones, recorders, percussion, speech and movement to work on their skills in improvising and composing.
October 2015
This month, Mrs. Shuck and I are collaborating on a music program for 2nd grade students. 2nd graders, along with the Honor Choir will present the program on November 19th at 6:30pm here at JW. 5th graders are working on learning to recognize and play chord progression accompaniments. 3rd and 4th grade students are reviewing and extending their understanding of measures, bar lines, meter, note values and rhythms. All students in grades 2-5 have learned a longways set dance called Alabama Gal. Those who are in attendance, along with parents and younger siblings will have the chance to dance it at the PTO Barn Dance on November 6th. Kindergarteners and 1st grade students are learning about the four voices (whisper, talk, call, sing), loud/soft sounds, long/short sounds and in general learning the ropes of the music classroom (as for some half day kindergarteners, this is their first experience with it).
September 2015
Welcome. I am looking forward to the start of the school and excited to see everyone and begin music classes. I am thrilled to be working with Mrs. Shuck, our new music teacher at Jacob Wismer. I spent my summer relaxing and connecting with friends and family, and preparing for the coming school year. Now, I'm ready to get back to music classes. Can't wait to see you.
2014-15 School Year
June 2015
In all grades we are taking a broad look at classical music, it’s forms, styles, and history. We’re listening to examples of classical music (Eine Kleine Nachtmusik by W.A. Mozart, Peter and the Wolf by Prokofiev, The Entertainer by Scott Joplin—just to name a few) and talking about some of the more popular and well known composers and conductors.
May 2015
In 4th and 5th grade we are taking a look at trumpets and learning about the very basics of what it takes to play one. The trumpet instrument cart will be at Jacob Wismer from April 20-June 4. In 3rd grade we have begun ukuleles. There are lots of 2 chord songs we'll be singing and playing.
In 3rd, 2nd and 1st we are putting the finishing touches on our songs for Celebrate the Arts. After that, we'll be moving on to using classroom instruments (xylophones and other percussion instruments) with our singing and movement games and activities.
April 2015
The upper grades are working in small groups to arrange and perform songs on the ukulele. Some groups are learning songs that are new, some groups are reworking songs we've learned in class, some are thinking up original compositions. The emphasis is on playing together in ensembles, knowing the chords in your song, and executing chord changes.
The lower grades are learning Sansa Kroma (an Akan singing game from Ghana), A Qua Qua (originally from Jerusalem, a singing game much like "Down By the Banks"), and Round and Round (a circle game collected in the 70's from an island in the West Indies).
March 2015
In 4th and 5th grade we're playing ukulele--singing and playing songs that require only two chords--so that's been fun. We've got some new instruments in (unpitched percussion) and we've been using these in grades K-3. Singing and dancing games continue throughout.
February 2015
In music we've been teaching the violin unit. It's been 4th grade's first shot at it, and they're doing well. All are motivated and interested learners! This is the 2nd exposure for 5th graders and we see that in how they're making progress. 3rd grade students continue work on a musical about Portland. Students in grades K-2 have been learning a singing game called Mrs. Macaroni.
December 2014
Our learning targets for November were "I can improvise, compose or arrange music within a given framework at a capable level", and, "I participate in all parts of the lesson and show persistence when tasks are challenging". We did several readiness activities--games that involve rhythmic and tonal readiness and help students decode familiar and unfamiliar musical text/notation--to help us meet the first learning target. Moving forward, we'll be working more on reading and writing music.
Upper grades are singing a mix of patriotic songs. All grades will begin to include holiday/winter themed music in singing time. Third grade is working on the music from a play about Portland. Lower grades did November poems and a Thanksgiving canon and learned three songs (The Noble Duke of York, Little Johnny Brown, Old King Glory) that each involve a game/dance that we’ll add in December.
November 2014
A couple of weeks ago, the group Musicality Network (a consortium of music teachers in the area) came to play a concert for half of the students in 4th, 3rd, and 2nd grades. The other half of the students will hear the same group in January. Students really enjoyed the music they shared and lots of questions were answered about all the various instruments MN brought and demonstrated.
October 2014
Students in my music classes are working on learning Solfege, (which helps people sing on pitch and memorize music), rhythm notation, singing, reading music.