what is a good daily routine for music class?

Question

I teach elementary music k-5. I'm looking for a good routine to follow for each class. something like first five minutes-warm-up, next old song, new song, rhythm. Just something that I can follow, will make the classes more structured, and will help me organize my lesson plans.

Answer 1

For the warm ups, you can start by doing the do re mi scales. Then do things to loosen up the tongue, like tongue twisters. I used to know a really good one that started off like "Which witch is the wicked witch..." and I forget the rest. If this is the type of thing you're looking for, I can ask my friend, I know for a fact he remembers it.

I'm not sure what you mean by next old song, new song, but rhythms is pretty easy to do. You can get some stick things (I think they have an actual name, all I know is my old teacher had them) and have the kids sit in a circle, taking turns making up beats using their sticks and the floor while the rest repeated.

Answer 2

It might help to start your class with fun exercises like vocalizing with the La-la syllables, then meee-eeeyooooo (can imagine hearing it but can't spell it), and the raspberries to loosen the lips and mouth, etc. Then for rhythm exercises perhaps you can do clapping (or other percussion type instruments) with you leading and the kids copying; getting faster, slower, more complicated... Then use an old song to ease them into learning a new one. The key is to make it fun for all of you in the class.

Answer 3

put together a "jam session" and let the kids try to play together..this will give them spatial development....it may be hard with this grade level, and depending on what instruments they are playing..but try to get them to play in time and in tune with each other...it will challenge both you and them.