First grade students started violins! You can learn more about the violin unit HERE. We taught them about the different parts of the instrument, and the function of each:
- Scroll
- Pegs
- Peg Box
- Strings
- Nut
- Fingerboard
- Neck
- Body
- Ribs
- Bridge
- Sound Post
- F Holes
- Tailpiece
- Chin Rest
- Button
- Parts of the bow: frog, stick, tip, grip, screw, hair
See if your child can point to each part on the violin picture above!
The second graders continued the violin unit by reviewing rest position, playing position, and pizzicato. We were excited to discover that they remembered so much from last year! We plucked the G, D, A, and E strings with varied rhythms (using our Conversational Solfege rhythm syllables). The students also learned the bass line for one of their favorite songs - but Mrs. Niu and I have not revealed what song it is! :) They will find out next week....
In third grade, the students continued their rotating centers (you can read more about that HERE). We also learned the new note E so that students can play "Lucy Locket." We are so proud of all of the third graders- it is fun, yet challenging to learn a new instrument, and we are impressed by their dedication. Many students are volunteering to come for extra help/testing in the mornings and during recess. Please as your child to play for you at home- your support will encourage them to continue working, and I'm sure they are proud of their accomplishments thus far and excited to share that with you! In their second music class, the third graders started a book about Freddie the Frog. The story incorporates their notation skills (reading notes on a staff) with a fun recording and lots of music!
Fourth grade students started the violin unit this week. As third graders last year, they never learned the violin since they were focusing on the recorder. They were eager to learn, yet patient as we taught them the different parts of the instrument and how to play. In chorus, they finished the song "Cool Under Fire." It is a really fun and jazzy song, and we cannot wait to add the special spoken parts, along with some acting!
Fifth graders continued the violin this week, and reviewed rest position and playing position. We reviewed the four strings, and pizzicato. They are excited to start playing next week! In chorus, we sang "Singin' in the Rain" from the classic movie/musical. It has a swinging tune and fun tempo changes. The harmony is a bit difficult, but the students are embracing the challenge and really stepping it up! We are looking forward to adding dancing and movement.
Hope you had a great week, and enjoy the weekend!
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