American Folk Music and Dance

For the last couple of weeks we've continued our focus on American music and folk dancing in all grade levels. I have also been finding difficult to dance and take pictures at the same time. Hence the less frequent posts.

Dancing and movement are central to music, of course, and an equal part of our folk history. In addition, however, teaching dance along with music helps students learn and retain more information and perform the music better. This doesn't seem like it should, but it, probably because of the way the dancing provides associations and a context for getting the music. It is also makes class really fun!