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I did a super simple partner composition activity with my grade 2 and 3 students and by just spontaneously calling it a "secret handshake" rather than a body percussion composition, the kids were sooooooooo excited! It also led to some very interesting and creative compositions. Step 1: In pairs, students write an 8 beat rhythm pattern (two measures) using ta, ta-a, ti-ti, rest, and/or ti-ka-ti-ka. Step 2: Students decide on body percussion together that matches the rhythm pattern that they wrote. When demonstrating this, show different ways partners can connect. When students are composing their body percussion, watch for a group that clearly shows their rhythm and have them demonstrate for the class. Step 3: Have pairs perform their compositions for the class, having the rest of the students demonstrate their audience behaviour skills! Possible Extensions: Have students write out their compositions with graphic notation. Have pairs teach another group their handshake. It so...

I had a blast presenting at the Canadian Music Educators' Conference! My friend Sean and I presented two sessions: Bring on the Bugs! and another session where we presented our original composition "Phrygian Galaxy" . Thank you to everyone who attended our sessions and who supported us through the whole process! Click below for a video of the galactic dance used in the A section of "Phrygian Galaxy". GALACTIC DANCE   Enjoy and thank you for your support!

I am so excited to be presenting at the Canadian Music Educators' Association conference this coming weekend! I am also very thrilled to be presenting two sessions together with my very good friend and colleague, Sean! Bring on the Bugs is an energetic session full of music games and activities for the early years music classroom as we explore the theme of bugs. The ideas focus on literacy, singing, speech ostinati, soundscapes, composition, and improvisation... and they are all buzzing with fun! A quick activity from Bring on the Bugs is Ladybug Vocal Slides! Vocal slide warm-ups can be a fun, energetic way to get students engaged immediately! Using their finger, have students draw their sound in the air as they "read" each vocal slide card, vocalizing each one. Click on the link below for a FREE pdf of of the vocal slide cards. LADYBUG VOCAL SLIDE CARDS For those of you who attended our session, click on the link below to find the manipulatives for our fun Caterpillar C...