Spring part 2

K-5 news!

Kinders: We are working on really noticing the difference between high, middle, and low notes in a song. Our songs have been using only 3-5 pitches so this is making it easier to identify them. The other concept is that we are working on long and short sounding notes in a song. Today for example we looked to see what the pattern was in the song we were using and clapping the short and long notes!

1st grade: We have been using our ears a lot this winter! The students have been introduced the the instrument families and what happens to the sound when the instrument is big or small!

2nd grade: This month, the 2nd graders have been working on rhythm on the lummi sticks. They have been using a CD for verbal directions, or rhythm flashcards to play the rhythm correctly. We are getting good at identifying notes!

3rd grade: After some time back on the lummi sticks, the 3rd grade is working on reading music using plastic pitched tubes called Boomwhacers.We are gradually introducing new notes so we can play more music!

4th grade: Recorders have taken over our year! We are currently working on ties, and reading/playing 7 different notes on our recorder. What a world away from playing Hot Cross Buns in January.

5th grade: The main focus of this spring is different types of ensembles. The Oregon Symphony started this, we are singing/discussing vocal ensembles now, and will get to band ensembles right before our instrument essay in May. Keep working on identifying those instrument and voice types!

Our next concert isn't until the end of May for most of these grades. I'll keep you posted as to when and where your child will perform next.

Happy Spring!

Mrs. Miller

Springtime!

So many things going on right now in the music room!

Springtime in the music room means that the middle schoolers are preparing for their concert!
Reminder that our Middle School Spring concert is a mandatory event for all 6-8th grade students.
Thursday, April 26, 2012 at 2:15pm and 6:30pm

Other upcoming middle school events:
Middle School Festival--7th grade band only
Friday, April 27th ALL day
We will be adjudicated on two pieces of music and are also preparing 4 other pieces for the festival. The day is broken into two pieces: adjudication and rehearsal for these 4 pieces. At the end of the day, the students participating in this event perform a concert!

Junior Rose Festival Parade
6th/7th band students
Wednesday, June 6th at 1pm in Portland
Starting after spring break, all of the students will be participating in weekly rehearsals after school!

Information has been sent out for these events, but more will be coming as we get closer to them.
I'm so excited to give these opportunities to the middle schoolers!

Mrs. Miller