Here in this year of in school being dictated by Covid protocols, we have been unable to do any live performances. Performance is such an important component of learning music, without it, it really felt like something was missing. I tried to come up with creative ways to bring some performance to my students even in this strange year. I wasn't able to do it in all the grade levels, but I managed to put something together in Kindergarten and 2nd grade: The kinder classes learned the songs and dances from the play they would normally do. Then we got in costumes and went to the stage at the Middle School to make a video version of the kindergarten play, which follows. https://www.wevideo.com/view/2174714554?fbclid=IwAR3zb369A8pqTNC9DqOe08ck-UScpe6bxnmub1O7nzr4rguaxAo8FO5-GTI In 2nd grade we did a dance to a great song from the 80s that some of you may remember! In the first part of the video, the students learned a dance I taught to them. In the later segments, the students created their own choreography, and rehearsed together before we filmed and compiled the video which follows. https://www.wevideo.com/view/2178456484?fbclid=IwAR0YxEUjnp3fCESzmCsLDcAxwltUvK1eNkkWQahrF4Fsd_HY0HMM8TBET4o
Music
A Word about Links
All the links to performance music will take you to two folders: performance tracks, and practice tracks. The practice tracks contain vocals. These are good for practice early in the learning process when students are still new to the songs. The singers on the recordings are singing correctly and will help the students learn to sing the songs correctly. The performance tracks do not contain vocals; they are the same recordings we use for accompaniment in performances. These are great for practice once the students know the songs fairly well, and are ready to test their ability to sing the songs independently. My recommendation is not to switch to the performance tracks too early in the learning process.
Staff Members
Success in Music Class
Trying is doing! Sometimes when you're learning new things it might feel awkward or uncomfortable, like you're not getting it. That happens to everyone. Learning music is mostly about how hard you try. If you make a consistent effort in class, you will succeed!
Plays and Performance Expectations
Student Expectations for Play: Students wear tennis shoes for all practices and performances on the stage. On play day, students will be at school all day for dress rehearsals, and will return in the evening for the performance.
Audience Expectations for plays: There is a certain etiquette that is appropriate for theatrical performances that is different from other events. It is important for young children to learn how to behave in the theater. It is even more important for adults to reinforce this behavior by setting a good example, and requiring older students to behave appropriately, too. The following are guidelines for attending a performance at BES:
Turn off cell phones. Arrive on time and do not block passageways or safety exits. If you arrive late, wait until an applause break before you enter the theater to find a seat. Do not talk while someone is on stage. No flash photography. Stay in your seat during the performance. Promptly remove any crying or disruptive children. Wait until an applause break to get up, move around, or leave the theater. Do not call out people on stage. While this is encouraged at sporting events, in the theater it is not appropriate. Show support for actors by applauding at the end of a scene or musical number.