Brain+Storm+Process

Process I use when brainstorming and creating music with the boys. by Michelle Demko

3rd grade soundcarpets

* read story or poem that will have accompanying sounds * discuss different emotions or feelings * read story or poem again, underlining key words * brainstorm types of sounds (loud, soft, repetitive, soothing, etc.) and how to evoke the same feelings musically * discuss what instruments are available * discuss which instruments might best be used

then……….

* of available instruments, choose 3 (xylophone, metallophone, hand drum, bells, claves, recorder, etc.) * read the story, stopping on underlined words * have students share ideas for sounds or leitmotivs, if you will (they may use their own instruments or suggest that other students use theirs, alone or in combination) * shut eyes and vote for best sound (not your best friend   * repeat the whole process    * be patient, it takes forever!

5th Grade Greek Play Music

The process for the music for the 5th grade play music was basically the same as the process for the 3rd grade sound carpets. The main difference was we were much more intricately involved with the whole story and discussed how to move the story line along with the drumming and playing. There was also some historical survey of what instruments were used back in ancient times and how. In addition, there was much more improvisation of different drumming (especially patterns), singing, and recorder playing.