Music
By Joy Bell
January 20, 2009
What a start to the New Year! At least we were able to get our concert in. So far this semester has been very busy. All of the grades have been learning about Peter Tchaikovsky as we watch a few different versions of the Nutcracker Ballet. I was able to find a motion picture with a ballet company that exposes the students to what an actual ballet looks like. We begin this unit by reading the "Nutcracker" by E.T.A. Hoffmann and then we watch the videos. This gives us a good opportunity to discuss the differences in the various media types as well as the differences in the story lines. The Third, Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Grades will do a little further study into the composer himself. The Fifth and Sixth Grades will also be studying Mozart and Bach and then most likely a more modern composer. When the Kindergarten, First and Second Grade are finished with Tchaikovsky they will begin learning about form in music and how melody and rhythm play a part in the form of the music. It is important for the students to participate in class discussions and sing the songs even if they don't like them. Higher marks for grades can only be earned if the student sings when they are supposed to, plays or taps a rhythm when they are supposed to or participates in class discussions. If there are any questions please feel free to talk to me anytime.
