Creative Cumulative Song Compositions

Third graders are working hard to identify the differences between verse/refrain songs and cumulative songs.  Ms. McClure's class composed some alternate lyrics to the American folk song "Bought Me A Cat."  

You can see what they wrote, a copy of the lyrics to the song it's based on, and a blank template to write your own silly song with your family.  I look forward to seeing some new creations!

Our fifth graders are working hard to identify instruments by sight and sound.  Benjamin Britten's piece "A Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra" is one of my favorite ways for people--young and old--to review families of instruments (string, woodwind, brass, and percussion), as well as naming the individual instruments you see and hear.  Turn your speakers up and enjoy this well-known piece of music with your family!

Music Sites for Summer Fun!

Here are a few of my favorite websites to explore when you have some extra time with your family this summer.

1)  www.incredibox.com  You, too, can create your own incredible beat boxing mixes!

2)  http://www.philtulga.com/  There are some really great games and activities you can play under the "Activities" tab.  Many of these games connect music to other subject areas, such as math and science.  There are also some ideas for making some of your own instruments, too!

3)  Learn more about "The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra" by Benjamin Britten and the instruments used by playing this game:  http://listeningadventures.carnegiehall.org/

Stay tuned and I'll keep adding more to the list.  Have a great summer!

Fifth Graders!

Here are some video clips and the lyrics to help you learn your three pieces for the Cluster Concert at Tilden Middle School, 11211 Old Georgetown Road, Rockville, MD, on Thursday, January 28th.  Please remember to report to the cafeteria by 6 p.m.

Please also remember to wear white on top and black/dark clothes on bottom and practice memorizing your music!  

1.) The Colburn Children's Choir singing Stopping By Woods On A Snowy Evening

http://safeshare.tv/v/ss56784ecc47da0

2)  Seven Feet of Snow

http://safeshare.tv/v/ss567850821d006

3)  Best Day of My Life (by the American Authors)
http://safeshare.tv/v/ss567851078ed6f