Fun-filled Music Education Through Recorder Karate

Fun-filled Music Education Through Recorder Karate

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A dynamic methodology introduced into the music classroom fairly recently is, recorder karate. Also named the, "English flute", it is usually the very first instrument children are introduced to at a beginner's level. Belonging to the woodwind class of instruments, it is relatively easy to learn if patience and diligent practice is encouraged.

This method also includes the same principles of discipline and respect that karate upholds. Students should enter the classroom in silence, prepared with all the necessary items required for the lesson. They are also expected to bow to their instructor and their peers before and after the lesson. Learners sit cross-legged and should not begin playing without being instructed to do so - to do otherwise is seen as being disrespectful.

A special grading system is followed, where students earn belts as they advance through the various levels. The colours of the belts follow the same progression as karate: white, yellow, orange, green, purple, blue, red, brown and finally, black. As extra incentive, some teachers add trinkets or charms to the ends of the belts for special effort and good behaviour in class.

Each coloured belt is achieved by successfully playing the allocated song for that particular level. As the songs increase in musical difficulty, so the colours progress up their rankings. To earn a white belt, learners must play, "Hot Cross Buns", which incorporates the notes, B, A and G. To achieve a black belt, they must play, Beethoven's, "Ode To Joy", which includes notes, D, E, F#, G, A, B, and C.

One noticeable benefit of this method is that it motivates children who normally do not want to participate in class activities. Some teachers have noticed that many even help each other and practice in recess. More students also become more easy to instruct and willing to receive advice and take extra lessons to achieve their goals.

A con of the method is that struggling students may not be able to keep up with other class members. Some teachers even feel that this kind of competitive practice is unhealthy. Still others feel that competition increases their willingness to learn and play an active role in achieving their full potential.

In order to suit the needs and make-up of each individual music class, many teachers adapt the methods. Some allocate entire lessons to learning and practicing new songs while others spend a maximum of thirty minutes on it. Others have introduced gold and silver belts to follow black, with their own individual songs to accompany them.

Teachers and students can easily access online books and instructional guides which will aid in the learning process. Recorder karate books include fingering techniques, instrument maintenance guides and worksheets which make for an engaging learning experience. Teachers find both pros and cons to be prevalent but many affirm it is being very effective and extremely influential in producing better results in music class.

About the Author:
Recorder Karate can be found on our website www.recorderkarate.net.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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