Improvisation-based exercises may be the key to unlocking students' innate musical creativities. This article focuses on two exercises--drone improvisation and circle stringing--that can be easily integrated into the orchestra curriculum and adapted to the learning needs of the individual student, small-ensemble, and large-ensemble settings. Of…

Described are improvisational activities based on the Orff-Schulwerk teaching technique which include: sound and movement; sound and movement plus visuals; interpretation of designs from nature, architecture, paintings, rotating rondo, singing hands, and moving from words to song. Pictures of children participating in these activities are…

This book provides both new and experienced music educators with much-needed advice drawn from credible research and established approaches, but also includes practical application for the incredible variety of music classrooms that teachers face today. Kevin Mixon adapts research-based theories to fit typical situations that are not always ideal.…

This book offers teachers a practical and theoretical classroom guide to the many ways music and stories may be explored, both independently and in tandem, to give students a better understanding and appreciation of each art form separately and of their power together. The crucial aspect of activities described in the book is original productions…

This curriculum guide has been prepared for use by both the music specialist and the classroom teacher in New York City. It outlines areas of musical subject matter appropriate for students in grades five and six. The materials are presented in six sections. "Rhythmic Experiences" introduces students to a variety of meters and rhythms…