Author: clarinetguy ★2017
Date: 2015-08-27 21:01
Most upper elementary, middle school, and high school music teachers teach rhythms with the traditional 1 2 3 + 4 etc. I've found that many students just can't connect with this approach, and never really learn how to read rhythms correctly.
When I was a young band teacher, teaching in elementary and middle schools, that's the way I taught too. Students started coming to me, showing me how their vocal music teacher did it. He used the Kodaly system (a quarter note is "ta," two eighth notes are "ti ti," etc.). I started using it too, and noticed an immediate improvement.
So many teachers of older students consider this to be a babyish approach, and won't go near it. Why? If students can't connect with the rhythm with the traditional 1 2 3 + 4 approach, what's the harm?
The Kodaly system does have limitations, and once students move beyond basic whole note, half note, quarter note, and eighth note rhythms, it isn't all that useful. Still, the basic rhythms are the building blocks, and once students are solid with them, harder rhythms are more easily mastered. The Kodaly system is a great way to build stronger reading skills with the basic rhythms.
Many years ago, I met Bruce Pearson of Standard of Excellence fame. He believes young students should sing their short selections before they play them, and move their hands in rhythm as they do it. It's a great approach that can be slowly phased out as students move through the beginner book.
I have young students sing with note names and Kodaly syllables. If a student is catching on, I'll usually add the traditional 1 2 3 and 4 approach.
It's tough when you get older students who have never really learned their basic rhythms. You could go back to square one and teach them the basics, but most won't go for it. Your backyard technique sounds good to me.
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