Welcome to First Grade music!
Here is what we are focusing on in class and what I hope that each child is able to conquer before they reach second grade...
1) Reading/ Writing Basic Rhythms
2) Mi, Sol, La
3) Treble Clef (note names)
4) Playing Instruments
5) Orchestra Families
6) Folk Songs
Why music, and why now?
One
of the major skills that my music classroom specifically emphasizes is
the ability to work together as a group, or cooperation skills. Not only
does our musical environment require that we work with others, but it
also requires that we function in unison with one another. Musically
speaking, the skills that are worked on in Kindergarten are foundational
in nature, and cannot be passed over. Making sure that all of the
students can keep a beat, or at least are on their way to understanding
what the beat is, is key to their future learning. In addition,
discovering the singing voice at a young age is proven to help
expressiveness when reading aloud and also confidence in daily speech. Learning basic theory in first and second grade is building the foundation for future musical communication. Furthermore, it is important to not only learn orchestra names, but also learn the names and functions of instruments in other ensembles such as rock and jazz bands. This widens the path to many musical possibilities rather than just the classical route.
