Hello Everyone
We had a very successful class. Everyone was very focused.
Sarina didn’t join us because she had earned a “Lunch with her Teacher”. Good for you Sarina!
Caitlyn and Sophie completed lesson 44 and met Mr. Tchaikovsky. Next week they will tell us some highlights of Tchaikovsky”s life and music. They also were introduced to “eighth notes” these look like pairs of black notes held together by a little roof. Each pair of eighth notes = 1 beat (one “quarter note). There are 4 beats to a bar. Parents – perhaps you could help the girls understand this using a picture of a pie to demonstrate the whole note (4 beats) , half note (2 beats) quarter note (i beat) eighth notes (2 = 1 beat). Excellent work girls!
Maren scooted through to lesson 12 and met SCOTT JOPLIN whose music she will be learning about for the next 5 weeks. Tell us some important things about Scott Joplin next week Maren. Terrific work!
Simon reviewed lesson 66 and made big improvement on his hand position. He then reviewed bits of lessons up to 69. Remember to start every session with your “invisible ball” and place BOTH hands on the keyboard making sure each finger has it’s own key. If your hand position isn’t rounded you will never be able to play fast or smoothly – I guarantee it! Successfully completing a lesson means using the correct finger for each note, having rounded hand (except for thumbs all finger play on their tip-toes), counting carefully, and learning something about each Composer / Teacher. Take your time and try to remember all of these things. Learning about the composers isn’t just for musicians – it’s for everyone! Very good, hard work Simon.
Luke reviewed lesson 11. Playing high, higher, higher is tricky. A bit of review at home would be so helpful. Beautiful hand position Luke and amazing woodpecker rhythms again!
See you next week!
Catherine
Filed under: St. Catherine's Elementary
