Fifth Grade -- "Le Carillon"

Fifth Grade -- "Huron Carol"

4th & 5th Grade Home -- "Don't Knock"

4th & 5th Grade Home - "Hitotsu Toya"

Fourth Grade - "Il Est Né"

Fourth Grade -- "Still, Still, Still"

Third Grade -- "Good King Wenceslas"

Third Grade -- "Bransle"

Third Grade -- "Ramadan"

Third Grade -- "Ode to Joy"

Second Grade -- "S'vivon"

Second Grade -- "Jambo Bwana"

Second Grade -- "Al Quebrar La Piñata"

K-1 & K-1-2 - "Snowflake Song"

K-1 & K-1-2 - "Ner Li"

First Grade - "Ise Oluwa"

First Grade - "Zumba, Zumba"

Kindergarten - "Light the Candles"

Here's My Holiday Card to All of You

Dear Wonderland Community -- first of all I want to congratulate the kids on a job well done on Thursday. As these videos show your performances were a tremendous exercise in concentration, skill and enthusiasm and each performance was a joy to watch. Thanks to Michael Ford, I have a video capture of all but two songs. They are arranged here from lowest grade level to highest. I hope you will enjoy them and share them with friends and family through the holiday season.

See you in January everyone!

5th Grade Magnet - Huron Carol Recorder Part

5th Grade Magnet Recorders -- here is video to help you with the recorder break for "Huron Carol". It's not very hard, and I hope you can get a decent version up and running by Tuesday, our dress rehearsal. E mail me if you have any questions.

2nd grade Magnet -- "S'vivon"

Ms. Lamoureaux's and Ms. Sae-tang's classes -- I understand you had some trouble listening to this recording, so let me try reposting. If that doesn't work -- CD's anyone?

S’vivon
Traditional Hanukkah Song

S’vivon; sov, sov, sov
Hanukkah hu hag tov
Hanukkah hu hag tov
S’vivon; sov, sov, sov

Chag sim cha hu la’am
Nes gadol haya sham
Nes gadol haya sham
Chag sim cha hu la’am

Spinning top; spin. spin. spin,
Hanukkah feast begin
Hanukkah feast begin,
Spinning top; spin. spin. spin.

Hanukkah celebration;
A holiday for our nation.
Things to eat and games to play.
Dreidel spin all the day.

4th & 5th Grade Home - "Don't Knock"

Mr. Alpert's and Ms. Salazar's class -- here are the lyrics and a practice recording of our second song for the holiday show, the gospel tune "Don't Knock." One class will be singing the call and the other the response (the words in the parentheses). I haven't decided who is doing what part, so for now try to familiarize yourselves with both.

Don’t Knock
by Mavis Staples

Chorus:

You don’t knock (you don’t knock, you just walk right in)
The door (the door into heaven’s inn)
There’s love (there’s love and joy for you)
To share (to share the whole day through)
I know (I know my friends are there)
To rest (to rest in the heaven’s nest)
You don’t knock, ring, punch a hole
The doors wide open, a-waiting for your soul
You don’t knock...you just walk on in.

I’ve walked life’s winding road (Oh yeah!)
Trying to bear this load (Oh yeah!)
Travelled both night and day (Oh yeah!)
So tired I could hardly pray (Oh yeah!)
My Lord, my light, my guide (Oh yeah!)
You’re ever at my side (Oh yeah!)
So I’m a-walkin’, not a-knockin’ into heaven with pride!

Repeat chorus

I’ll have no need to fear (Oh yeah!)
My Lord is ever near (Oh yeah!)
He’ll know my work is true (Oh yeah!)
So glad the day is through (Oh yeah!)
It wasn’t for me to say (Oh yeah!)
I didn’t think I’d make my way (Oh yeah!)
So I’m a-walkin’, not a-knockin’ into heaven, goodbye!

Repeat chorus

4th Grade Magnet - "Il Est Ne"

Ms. Lopez's and Mr. Anderson's classes -- here is the second song we will be performing for the holiday song. It is in French, but as you will see many of the phrases repeat.

Il Est Ne
Traditional French Carol

Il est ne, le divin enfant,
Jouez, hautbois, resonnez, musettes.
Il est ne, le divin enfant,
Chantons tous son avenement!

Depuis plus de quatre mille ans,
Nous le promettaient les Prophetes;
Depuis plus de quatre mille ans,
Nous attendions cet heureux temps.

Il est ne, le divin enfant,
Jouez, hautbois, resonnez, musettes.
Il est ne, le divin enfant,
Chantons tous son avenement!

Qu'il est beau. qu'il est charmant,
Ques ses gracers song parfaites!
Qu'il est beau. qu'il est charmant,
Qu'il est doux le divin enfant!

Il est ne, le divin enfant,
Jouez, hautbois, resonnez, musettes.
Il est ne, le divin enfant,
Chantons tous son avenement!

5th Grade Magnet -- "Le Carillon"

Mr. Earl's and Ms. Epstein's classes -- since our other song is a bit of a challenge, I though we should try something a bit lighter (and with fewer words!) This is actually a fun canon that anyone can try. The words are:

Entendez vous Le Carillon dari don don don don don don don don don!

5th Grade Magnet - "Huron Carol"

Mr. Earl's and Ms. Epstein's classes --here are all three verses of "Huron Carol" in their entirety. Notice that the drone vocal also changes languages.

Huron Carol
by Jean de Brébeuf, S.J.
adapted for Wonderland School

Wendat Verse

Ehsten yayan deh tsaun we
(Estan yah yun day t’sun way)
Iesus ahattonnia
(Aysoos Ahhatonya)
O na wateh wado:kwi
(On non wah tay way doh kay)
Nonnwa ‘ndasqua entai
(non n’wah das entah)
Ehnau sherskwa trivota
(aynow shar squa treevotah)
Nonnwa ‘ndi yaun rashata
(Nonwah dee yawn rah-ash-hat tha)

Iesus Ahatonnia,
(Aysoos Ahhatonya)
Ahattonnia; Iesus Ahattonnia
(Ahhatonya; Aysoos Ahhatonya)

French Verse

Oyez cette nouvelle dont
(Oy-yea set novel le don)
Un ange est porteur!
(Un anjay es por-tur)
Oyez ames fideles,
(Oy-yea ahm fee-day-luh)
Et dilatez vos coeurs.
(Ay de-la-tay vo cur)
La Beau Mère dans l'étable
(La bow mare dan lay tablah)
Entoure de ces bras
(Entouray de say bra-ah)

L'enfant endormi belle.
(Law-fon endorme bell)
Endormi; L'enfant endormi belle.
(Endorme; Law-fon endorme bell)

English Verse

Let all good men take heart today
The devil’s rule is done
Let no man fear the shadow more
For peace on earth has come
Hear ye what all angels sing
Trumpets herald and drums proclaiming

Peace on earth has come
Peace on earth.
Peace on earth has come

5th Grade Magnet - "Huron Carol" - Pronunciation

Mr. Earl's and Ms. Epstein's classes -- the best way to approach learning Huron Carol is to learn the pronunciations in the Wendat (Huron) and French verses slowly first. This pronunciation track should help. Listen as many times as you need to to develop a comfort level with the the first two verses (the phonetic spellings are in parentheses).

Huron Carol
by Jean de Brébeuf, S.J.
adapted for Wonderland School

Wendat Verse

Ehsten yayan deh tsaun we
(Estan yah yun day t’sun way)
Iesus ahattonnia
(Aysoos Ahhatonya)
O na wateh wado:kwi
(On non wah tay way doh kay)
Nonnwa ‘ndasqua entai
(non n’wah das entah)
Ehnau sherskwa trivota
(aynow shar squa treevotah)
Nonnwa ‘ndi yaun rashata
(Nonwah dee yawn rah-ash-hat tha)

Iesus Ahatonnia,
(Aysoos Ahhatonya)
Ahattonnia; Iesus Ahattonnia
(Ahhatonya; Aysoos Ahhatonya)

French Verse

Oyez cette nouvelle dont
(Oy-yea set novel le don)
Un ange est porteur!
(Un anjay es por-tur)
Oyez ames fideles,
(Oy-yea ahm fee-day-luh)
Et dilatez vos coeurs.
(Ay de-la-tay vo cur)
La Beau Mère dans l'étable
(La bow mare dan lay tablah)
Entoure de ces bras
(Entouray de say bra-ah)

L'enfant endormi belle.
(Law-fon endorme bell)
Endormi; L'enfant endormi belle.
(Endorme; Law-fon endorme bell)

Third Grade Home - "Good King Wenceslas" for recorder

Attention Ms. Weiss's and Ms. Wasson's students -- I am looking for a few recorder players who would like to try playing an instrumental break during "Good King Wenceslas." I need about 5-7 recorders who can play the melody one time through. Are you up to the challenge? This video will show you how to do it. Give it a look and let's talk on Monday.

Note -- I am also posting sheet music that you can print out, for those of you that roll that way ;). Click on it to make it larger for viewing or printing.

Ms. Raphael's class -- Native Flute Video 3

In this video I will show the short pieces of music or "licks" I will be asking you to play in the B section of "Snowflake Song." I think you'll find the are all pretty easy.

I will be giving these video to Jane so you can also practice in the classroom. Remember -- we only have a a couple of weeks before the show.

Ms. Raphael's class -- Native Flute Video 2

In this video I talk about the pentatonic (5 note) scale you flute can play and show you to practice each note. Give it a try.

Ms. Raphael's class -- Native Flute Video 1

For Jane's 2nd graders I'll be posting three short videos this week that will hopefully teach you about the American Indian flutes you will be playing to accompany "Snowflake Song" in the holiday show. This first video deals with how to hold and blow into your flute to get the best sound. I hope you find these videos useful when you practice at home.

Kindergarten - "Light the Candles"

Mr. Song's and Ms. Lacey's classes -- we will be singing this Hanukkah song "Light the Candles" to go along with "Mambo, Santa, Mambo," which I posted earlier. You can practice the song, by pushing the play button below. The words are also posted here to help you learn.

Light the Candles
Samuel Roeman

Light the little candles,
And sing a song of Hanukkah.
Deidel spinning gaily,
For Hanukkah is here.
Turning, turning; hora dancers turn and turn.
Burning, burning; see the bright Menorah burn.
Haunkkah time is here.
Let’s all be happy!
Hanukkah time is here.
La-la-la-la-la!

K-1 & K-1-2 - "Ner Li"

Ms. Raphael's and Ms. Mayer's classes -- "Ner Li," is the song we will be singing to go along with "Snowflake Song" which was posted earlier. The song is entirely in Hebrew, but it is very short. Follow along with the words posted below as you listen to the recording.

Ner Li
Traditional Hebrew folk tune

Ner li, ner li,
Ner li dakik.
Bahanukah ner ri ad’lik

Bahanukah nei ri ya’ir
Bahanukah shir im a shir
Bahanukah nei ri ya’ir
Bahanukah shir im a shir

First Grade - "Zumba, Zumba"

Ms. Hamilton's, Duron's and Vldez's classes -- here is an arrangement of our second song the way we will sing it for the show. Take your time with the Spanish verse. The words are posted below.

Zumba, Zumba
Traditional holiday song from Spain

Zumba, zumba le al pandero
Al pandero y al rabel
Toca, toca la zambomba
Da le da le al almirez

Zumba, zumba le al pandero
Al pandero y al rabel
Toca, toca la zambomba
Da le da le al almirez

Born on this night is a baby (clap, clap, clap)
Everyone brings him a present (clap, clap, clap)
Brings him a savory meat pie (clap, clap, clap)
Made out of partridge and pheasant (clap. clap. clap)

Zumba, Zumba, strike the cymbal
Zumba, Zumba, strike the gong
Zumba, Zumba, beat the timbal
And the tambourine and drum

Zumba, Zumba, strike the cymbal
Zumba, Zumba, strike the gong
Zumba, Zumba, beat the timbal
And the tambourine and drum

Third Grade Magnet -- "Ramadan"

Ms; Abu-Bakir's and Mr. Oasay's classes -- we will be doing "Ramadan" by Nancy Stewart as our vocal song to accompany the instrumental "Ode to Joy." Press the play button at the bottom and follow along with the lyrics. Watch your phrasing, of the lines of the verses often start on the second beat rather than the first.

Ramadan
By Nancy Stewart

I have a friend, his name is Omar.
His family celebrates Ramadan,
The nine month of the lunar year.
His family celebrates Ramadan.
Ramadan, Ramadan; his family celebrates Ramadan

Ev’ry morning they get up
and have a meal before it’s light
They don’t eat and they don’t drink.
They fast until the dark of night during
Ramadan, Ramadan; his family celebrates Ramadan

On the first day of the month at follows Ramadan
their family invites us the feast that they put on celebrating
Ramadan, Ramadan; their family celebrates Ramadan

I have a friend, her name is Ameena.
Her family celebrates Ramadan.
We go to school together and play.
Ameena prays five times a day during
Ramadan, Ramadan; her family celebrates Ramadan.
Ramadan, Ramadan; her family celebrates Ramadan.

Ramadan, Ramadan, Ramadan mubarak, Ramadan

Third Grade Home - "Good King Wenceslas"

Ms. Weiss's and Ms. Wasson's classes -- "Good King Wenceslas" is the vocal number we will be doing for the holiday show along with the instrumental piece, "Bransle" that I posted earlier. We may add an instrumental break in "Good King Wenceslas" as well, but for now I want you to focus on learning the words.

Good King Wenceslas
traditional/England

Good King Wenceslas looked out on the Feast of Stephen,
As the snow laid round about; deep and crisp and even.
Brightly shown the moon that night though the frost was cruel.
When a poor man came in sight gathering winter fuel.

“Hither page and stand by me. If though knowest telling.
Yonder peasant who is he? Where and what his dwelling?”
“Sire, he lives a good league hence; underneath the mountain,
Right against the forest fence, by Saint Agnes’ fountain.”

“Bring me flesh and bring me wine, bring me pine-logs hither.
Thou and I will see him dine when we bear them thither.”
Page and Monarch, forth they went, forth they went together,
Through the rude wind’s wild lament and the bitter weather”

2nd Grade Magnet -- "Jambo Bwana"

Ms. Lamoureaux's and Ms. Sae-tang's classes -- your other song is the famous Kenyan/Tanzanian song, "Jambo Bwana." You will probably recognize at least one of the Swahili phrases that was borrowed by the writers of "The Lion King." Once again the song is in another language, but you will notice that is really just a handful of words that repeat.

Jambo Bwana
Kiswahili song from East Africa

Jambo
Jambo bwana
Habari gani?
Mzuri sana
Wageni
Wakaribishwa
Kenya yetu
Hakuna matata (4x)

Jambo bwana - hakuna matata...
Habari gani? - hakuna matata...
Mzuri sana - hakuna matata...
Wakaribishwa - hakuna matata...
Kenya yetu - hakuna matata...
Jambo bwana - hakuna matata...
Habari gani? - hakuna matata...
Mzuri sana - hakuna matata...
Hakuna matata - hakuna matata!

2nd Grade Magnet -- "S'vivon"

Ms. Lamoureaux's and Ms. Sae-tang's classes -- here is your first song, "S'vivon," a traditional Hanukkah song. To play it just click on the play button on the bottom to the page, a follow along with the lyrics. Remember when singing the Hebrew words to pronounce "Ch" like it as an "H."

S’vivon
Traditional Hanukkah Song

S’vivon; sov, sov, sov
Hanukkah hu hag tov
Hanukkah hu hag tov
S’vivon; sov, sov, sov

Chag sim cha hu la’am
Nes gadol haya sham
Nes gadol haya sham
Chag sim cha hu la’am

Spinning top; spin. spin. spin,
Hanukkah feast begin
Hanukkah feast begin,
Spinning top; spin. spin. spin.

Hanukkah celebration;
A holiday for our nation.
Things to eat and games to play.
Dreidel spin all the day.

2nd Grade Home -- "Put A Little Love In Your Heart"

Ms. McLeod's and Mr. Reyes's (Ms. Zarakowski's) classes --here is your second song, "Put A Little Love In Your Heart." There are several version of this song out there, including the original by Jackie deShannon. Make sure you practice with his version, so that you are using the same phrasing and key as your partner class.

Put A Little Love In Your Heart
Jackie de Shannon

Think of your fellow man.
Lend him a helping hand.
Put a little love in your heart.
You see it’s getting late.
Oh, please don’t hesitate.
Put a little love in your heart.
And the world will be a better place
And the world will be a better place
For you… and me…
You just wait… and see…

Another day goes by
And still the children cry.
Put a little love in your heart.
If you want the world to know
We won’t let hatred grow.
Put a little love in your heart.
And the world will be a better place
And the world will be a better place
For you… and me…
You just wait… and see…

Take a good look around,
And if you’re lookin’ down
Put a little love in your heart.
I hope when you decide
Kindness will be your guide.
Put a little love in your heart.
And the world will be a better place
And the world will be a better place
For you… and me…
You just wait… and see…
Put a little love in your heart.
Put a little love in your heart.
Put a little love in your heart.
Put a little love in your heart.

2nd Grade Home -- "Al Quebrar La Piñata"

Ms. McCloud and Mr. Reyes's (Ms. Zarakowski's) classes -- here is the first of your two holiday show songs. Listen to the recorded track by clicking on the play button and reading along with the lyrics. You can listen as many times as you like. Remember that the key to this song is that the A section in in 3, while the B section is in 2.

Al Quebrar La Piñata
Traditional Christmas song from Mexico

En las noches de posadas
La piñata’es lo mejor
La niña más remilgada
Se’al barota con ardor

Dale, dale, dale;
No pier das el tino;
Que de la distancia;
Se pier de’al camino (2x)

In the happy days of Christmas
Sounds of gladness fill the air.
When it’s time for the piñata
There’s excitement everywhere.

Take a stick and whack it.
Be the one to crack it.
Win piñata’s treasure,
Candies for your pleasure! (2x)

4th Grade Magnet - "Still Still Still" - German Verse

Ms. Lopez and Mr. Anderson's class -- here is a recording of "Still, Still, Still," the Austrian holiday song we have been working on the last couple of weeks. I do not have a recording of the vocal in English, but I do have the verse in German. Trying singing along with it. (Remember "w" is pronounced "v.") You can also try singing the English words posted here "karioke style" against the instrumental part of the track. As you will see there is enough space for all three verses.

Still, Still, Still
Traditional Austrian Carol

Still, still, still
Weils Kindlein schlafen will.
Maria tut es
Neider singen.
Seine grosse
Lieb dar bringen.
Still, Still, Still
Weils Kindlein schlafen will.

Sleep, Sleep, Sleep
My dearest child now sleep.
The guardian angels
Dearly love you.
Singing softly
There above you.
Sleep, Sleep, Sleep
My dearest child now sleep.

Dream, dream, dream
A lovely shining dream.
Across the deep blue
Heavens yonder,
Lightly from star to star
You’ll wander.
Dream, dream, dream
A lovely shining dream.

4th & 5th Grade Home - "Hitotsu Toya" -- pronunciation

Ms. Salazar and Mr. Alpert's class - here is a pronunciation track for the verse of "Hitotsu Toya" we will be singing in Japanese. Listen to this audio to perfect your Japanese accent.

4th & 5th Grade Home - "Hitotsu Toya" - Japanese Verse

Ms. Salazar's and Mr. Alpert's class -- you will be performing two songs for the holiday show together, the first of which is "Hitotsu Toya," a New Year's song from Japan. This track features the Japanese verse and enough room for you to sing the English verse karioke stye against an instrumental background. To really perfect your Japanese pronunciation check the second track posted above.

Hitotsu Toya (Temple Bells)
Japanese Folk Song

Hitotsu toya,
Hitoyo akureba.
Nigiyahka de.
Nigiyahka de.

Okazari tate taru
Matsukazari
Matsukazari

Temple bells will chime, oh
Chime for the bright new year
That comes to us tonight;
Comes to us tonight.

Now on ev’ry door there hangs
A spray of lovely pine;
A spray of lovely pine.

K-1 & K-1-2 - "Snowflake Song"

Ms. Mayer's and Ms. Raphael's classes -- here are the words to the California Indian song we have been learning. Since no one speaks Mono Piaute anymore, we don't know exactly what the words mean, but we do know that the song was sung during the first snowfall of the year.

Snow Flake Song
Mono Paiute song

T’a nee see na
Ah na mama na hopen
T’a nee see ta nay nah
Ah na mama na hopen

T’a nee see na
Ah na mama na hopen
T’a nee see ta nay nah
Ah na mama na hopen

T’a nee see na
Ah na mama na hopen
T’a nee see ta nay nah
Ah na mama na hopen

T’a nee see ta nay nah
Ah na mama na hopen
--

First Grade - "Ise Oluwa"

Ms. Duron's, Ms. Valdez's and Ms. Hamilton's classes -- here is the first song we have been working for the holiday show. Although it is in Yoruban, an African language, it is just two simple phrases. The words mean: "that which the creator has made can never be destroyed."

Ise Oluwa
a folk song from Nigeria

Ise Oluwa
Kolé bajeoh
Ise Oluwa
Kolé bajeoh
Ise Oluwa
Kolé bajeoh
Ise Oluwa
Kolé bajeoh

Kolé bajeoh
Kolé bajeoh

Ise Oluwa
Kolé bajeoh
Ise Oluwa
Kolé bajeoh

Kindergarten - "Mambo, Santa, Mambo!"

Ms. Lacy's and Mr. Song's classes -- here is the song we worked on this week. We will probably perform it a bit slower than it is sung here, but this version is fun to listen to. Remember that while one class is singing the verse, the other will be singing shoobee doobee doobee doo, so don't forget to work on your shoobees and doobees.

Mambo, Santa, Mambo!
as performed by The Bobs

They have Christmas down in Mexico,
A lot of places that you wanted to go.
Here is something that you don’t know:
Santa’s gonna do the Mambo

Mambo, Santa, Mambo;
Mambo, Santa, Mambo;
Mambo, Santa, Mambo;
Mambo, Mambo, if you can.
(Shoobee doobee doobee doo)

Old St. Nick is a jolly good man
He can Mambo like no one can
Will he mambo, well the kiddies say
Mambo, Santa, Mambo!

Mambo, Santa, Mambo;
Mambo, Santa, Mambo;
Mambo, Santa, Mambo;
Mambo, Mambo, if you can.

Here comes Santa with his eight reindeer.
Comes every time about this year.
Here’s something that you don’t know;
Santa’s gonna do the Mambo.

Mambo, Santa, Mambo;
Mambo, Santa, Mambo;
Mambo, Santa, Mambo;
Mambo, Mambo, if you can.

(Shoobee doobee doo)

Third Grade Home - "Bransle" (Part 1 and 2)

Here's both parts of "Bransle" played together so you can hear what it sounds like.

Third Grade Home - "Bransle" (Part 2)

Here's the complete second part. Try to play along. Or just for fun try to play the Part 1 melody against it.

Third Grade Home - "Bransle" (Part 1)

Ms. Wasson's and Ms. Weiss's classes -- here is a recording of first recorder part for our instrumental piece "Bransle." Follow along with the music. You can make the sheet music larger by clicking on it.

Third Grade Magnet - "Ode to Joy" - complete

Here's "Ode to Joy" in its entirety played at performance speed.Once again, clicking on the music makes it bigger,

Third Grade Magnet - Ode to Joy" - 3rd line

Here is the third line (measures 9-12) of "Ode to Joy." The fingering is tricky so take your time!

Third Grade Magnet - "Ode to Joy" - 2nd & 4th line (practice speed)

Here's the second line of "Ode to Joy." Notice that it is almost the same as the first -- and as you will see, it is exactly the same as the last.

Third Grade Magnet - "Ode to Joy" - 1st line (practice speed)

Ms. Abu Bakir's and Mr Oasay's class -- here's the first line of Ode to Joy for you to practice along with. Note that you can make the notation bigger by clicking on it.

Holiday Show Prep Underway!

This week in music we are beginning to prep the annual holiday show, "Winter Wonderland." I will be posting practice materials here so that students and teachers can access them at home or in the classroom. The show will be on Thursday, December 15 -- don't forget to mark it on your calendar.

"The House With Nobody In It"

Today fourth and fifth grade continued with Hollywood themed lessons. 4th graders continued their introduction to playing the Orff xylophones by learning "Intery Mintery," a nursery rhyme adaptation by Doug Goodkin, which is the center piece of the Halloween show at the San Francisco School. It definitely put everyone is spooky mood.

As for fifth grade, they completed their interpretation of the poem "The House With Nobody In It," by Joyce Kilmer. A video example from Mr. Alpert's class is posted above. The kids developed their own musical accompaniment based on the text (if you listen closely you will here the rhythm of "road...to...Suf...fern" and "along the Erie track" in the xylophone parts) and movement. Considering that hungry Kinder-third graders were streaming into the MPR throughout the reading, I think their performance shows remarkable concentration. Well done, all three fifth grade classes!

Halloween is coming!

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

With the rest of the week's and Monday's lessons devoted to Halloween themes, I thought I'd put up something to put everybody in the mood. Who are these scary people (that take about a minute to upload)?

Oliver Twist Twist Twist

As promised here is Ms. McLeod's class in action this morning. This simple movement piece becomes much more challenging as a three part canon or round, but they did a nice job with it. Excellent work, 2nd grade!

Little Bird, Big Bird

I was so busy last week I never had a moment to take a picture or update the blog. I'll try to be more diligent from now on.

Today was a good day. Second grade began with two song games -- "Hole in the Bottom of the Sea" & "Oliver Twist" -- designed to test their memory and focusing ability, two qualities they will need to get ready for the holiday show. I have video of "Oliver Twist" performed by Ms. McLeod's class posted above -- check it out!

Third Grade learned three new notes on the recorder - Low, D, High C and High D -- and used them in the song "Little Bird, Big Bird." Again I have the holiday show in mind, as 3rd grade has performed at least part of their portion of the show on recorder the last couple of years.

The day ended with Recorder Ensemble. We have an extremely large and enthusiastic group this year. I am very excited to be working with them.

Recorder Lesson 4: Improvisation

For those of you who want to get a head start on next week's lesson, here's some ideas to play around with regarding jazz and blues improvisation. Remember when it comes to jazz and the blues, rhythm that swings is always more important than pitch.

Ram Sam Sam and Little Johnny Brown

I feel like I am always writing that a particular day's lessons are among my favorites, but on Monday it was really true. We began in second grade with the kids learning "A Ram Sam Sam," a children's tune from Morocco. This song and the activity that accompanies it using chops sticks and paper give the kids an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the relationship between beat and rhythm. It also gives them a chance to work on their music sight reading skills, an ability that is very useful and often neglected.

By contrast the 3rd grade lesson centered on the song/game "Little Johnny Brown" was all about playing by ear and feel. The kids leaned an additional note - "E" - bringing their recorder vocabulary to 4 notes. As we will experiment with more next week, this is plenty to create some very jazzy improvisations. Those of you who want to get started on this, check out the video above and you'll see what I mean.

A rainy day with Mrs. Hen

Today because of the rain most of the music classes were held in the classrooms. Fortunately I had two of my favorite activities planned. Kindergarten began to learn the Jamaican folk tune, "Bam Chi Chi Bam," for which each class is developing a dance. And first grade learned two songs, "Which Came First?" and "Good Morning Mrs. Hen," which focus on the relation between language arts, math and music. The Chorus had their afternoon meeting in the MPR. All in all an excellent, if damp, day.

Recorder Lesson 3: Adding the E

Hey third graders and recorder ensemble members -- here is another video lesson focusing on the E. Remember you need to use both hands to make it!

A different version of Chopsticks

One of the central components of music for K, 1 and 2 is a development of awareness of the differences between beat and rhythm. This exercise using chopsticks and paper illustrates this wonderfully. 2nd graders are taught that paper represents the underlying pulse of the beat, while the chopsticks are the rhythm of long and short notes lying on top. The kids take turns creating rhythmic pieces which their fellow students must read and clap.

Falling Leaves

It was another fun day in music today. Kinders focused on dynamics in music (loud, soft, getting louder, getting softer) using the "Wolf Game" and the song "Grizzly Bear." I find myself turning to fall themes -- well, it is nearly October.

We continued this autumn motif in First and K-1-2 with the song "Falling Leaves." The song emphasizing descending and ascending scales, which the kids played on the xylophones and sang while using the scarves to simulate the leaves. Very pretty.

We also had our first meet on Chorus, which was really fun -- I have a good group this year. I'll try to get some pictures of all the ensembles next week.

No school tomorrow (whew!).

The amazing power of "Son Macaron"

I never cease to be amazed by the power of "Son Macaron," a beat passing game from Yugoslavia. Whether it is the nonsense words or the thrill of competition, 2nd graders just really seem to love it, so we always do it early in the year. Like many beat passing "hot potato" type games, the goal is not to be caught when the song stops, but in "Son Macaron" the vanquished can at least console themselves by joining the band.

In Third Grade the big excitement was handing out the recorders, although we barely had time to play them. There should be a good deal more playing next week. Parents, please note that students are required to bring their recorders every Monday from now on, whether they are in the ensemble or not, and that I will be posting video here (see Lessons 1 and 2 below) to help them practice. Also, especially in these early days when enthusiasm is high, but skill level a bit lower, please accept my apologies. ;). We'll have them playing sweet sounds before you know it.

Recorder Video Lesson 2 -- B-A-G

Here's a second recorder lesson to help you get started on some of the material we will be doing next week.

Recorder Video Lesson 1 -- Introduction

Hey Third Graders and Recorder Ensemble Newbies -- here is the first of a series of short video lessons intended to reinforce the things we are learning about Recorder. I hope you will find them useful!

Upper Grade Canons/Ensembles Begin!

On Thursday 4th and 5th grades both focused on canons. This a musical form we use a lot in upper grades where the central musical idea is performed is 2 or more parts in an overlapping fashion. Canons are also also called rounds, the best known of which are "Frere Jacques" or "Row Row Row Your Boat." But as the fifth graders learned, canons are not necessarily song. A very interesting canon can be created by performing a body percussion piece in multiple overlapping parts.

Thursday was also the day we began ensemble, with the first meeting of our Orff Percussion group. Pictures will follow shortly!

Vil Du?

On Wednesday first graders learned the Danish song folk tune "Vil Du (Will You)," a song about being echo friends. Echoing is one of the most important ways that students learn in music class and generally and is often a component in performance. And by taking turns being the leader, the students were introduced to the concept improvisation as well.

KIndergarteners also learned a song from another country -- "Mi Cuerpo Hace Musica," a song from Mexico. We focused on the way different parts of bodies are musical --mis manos haces clap clap clap, por ejemplo -- and learned and performed an accompanying freeze dance.

Wood Chuck Chuck - Ms. Abu Bakir's Class

Here's a recording we made today of Ms. Abu Bakir's class doing a three part chant based on the tongue twister "How Much Wood Would a Woodchuck Chuck?". Pretty awesome for Week 2. Next week -- recorders!

Hungarian Dancing

An excellent day today in 2nd and 3rd Grade music. The 2nd graders learned about 8 beat phrases and had an opportunity to improvise dances to "Hungarian Dance #5" by Brahms. This famous piece from the Romantic Period was familiar to most of them from the Disney Ride, the Baby Einstein video and/or the Bugs Bunny cartoon it accompanies. 3rd Graders learned the nonsense song "Diggy Diggy Dong" as a way of previewing note reading and articulation before getting the recorders next week. But before hand we polished the chant "Wood Chuck Chuck" we learned last week. The results from Ms. Abu Bakir's class were recorded and are posted above.

3rd, 4th and 5th Grade - Sign Up for Ensembles!

Today, Thursday, letters should have gone home to all upper grade students about signing up for one of our ensembles. This is a way for 3rd, 4th and 5th Graders, if they wish, to extend their music education experience at Wonderland. There are three options -- Recorder Ensemble, Chorus and, new this year, Orff Percussion Ensemble.

The letter above explains more about the ensemble program and can be downloaded. You may also post any questions on the blog or e mail, if you'd like a little more information.

The date of the first rehearsal is next Thursday.

Making sense of music with our senses and with movement

Like last year our music days are Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, but this year we managed to group the grade levels closest together on the same day. This will definitely simplify things planning-wise.

On Wednesday Kindergarten focused on how we use our senses -- primarily hearing, but also sight and touch -- to understand music and the sounds around us in general. The students used "soundcatchers", a kind of paper amplifier, to study the sounds around them. The goal here is to also get them to understand the importance of focused listening. First Grade and K-1-2 had a lot of fun with the song "Everybody born in January Skip Around" and the chant "Apples, Peaches, Pears and Plums," both of which emphasize the importance of steady beat.

Today fourth graders were introduced to the concept of melody contour using a lesson I learned from my Orff teacher James Harding, while fifth grade focused on polyrhythm and syncopation using a Keith Terry Body percussion exercise "Hey, You, What?" Alas, I was too busy jumping around to take pictures.

First Day of Instruction

The week in music began on a high note with 2nd Graders learning the mexican mole recipe chant "Bate Chocolate" and Third Graders beginning to work on "Wood Chuck Chuck." These are two of my favorite pieces which I always try to get to early in the year and both set the stage for what will be a major area of emphasis for the year. In 2nd grade that's the relationship between rhythm and steady beat. In 3rd grade it's performing music polyphonically -- the singing or playing of parts.

An oldie but goodie to start us off

To get started I thought I'd post one of my favorite vidclips from last year. During the dress rehearsal of "Sir Duke," one of three songs the fifth graders performed for their culmination, Mr. Wilson began to announce the winners of this years student council. I love the way last year's fifth grade kept their concentration. I also love their use of the Orff xylophones, something I hope we'll be doing a lot more of this year. But more on that tomorrow.

Welcome Back Everybody!

Welcome back to a exciting new year in music at Wonderland Avenue School. If you are new to the school, my name is Richard Lawton and I am the general music teacher at Wonderland.

I'll be coming by the classrooms to meet or get reacquainted with everyone tomorrow, but I also wanted to put a couple of fresh posts on our music blog. I use the blog to post pictures of what goes on in class, examples of student work, videos of performances -- anything and everything related to music at Wonderland. I hope you will check back frequently.

Culmination 2011 - "Come So Far"

This last song, I thought, was our strongest. but all three were really great. 5th graders, you should be very proud of yourselves.

It's been a pleasure being you teacher. Good luck in middle school and have a great summer everybody!

Culmination 2011 - "Imagine"

The band did such a nice job on Imagine -- thank you, India, Max, Luca and Amaka. I just wish you could see everyone, but rumor has it that there will be a DVD of the entire culmination ceremony and much better camera work available shortly. Stay tuned for details.

Culmination 2011 - "Sir Duke"

Amazing job from the culminating 5th grade class today. I managed to get some video captures of all three songs. First up "Sir Duke" -- not an easy song to sing or play, but you guys nailed it!

The Right Biomes - "You Want To Be Grass"

One more, this time from the bottom of the food chain.

It was great fun collaborating with Jane and Sarah. I hope we get to do it again next year.

Great job everybody!

The Right Biomes - "Fungi Are Our Friends"

Best song title, maybe ever. :)

The Right Biomes - "Food Chain"

As great as the singing was, I think my favorite part of the show was the costumes.

The Right Biomes - "Forests"

The Right Biomes - "Close to Shore"

The other part of our show yesterday, was a production of "The Right Biome," a musical play put up by Jane Raphael's class. Here is the first of several songs, all of which have to do with animals and plants and the environments they need to survive.

Recorders and Choir combined on "Zemir Atik"

One of our more challenging efforts was to have the combined ensembles learn this Hebrew folk tune and dance and have the kids perform it while accompanying themselves. The piece presents all kinds of challenges -- multiple components, unusual scales, words in a foreign language -- but the kids did an excellent job. Well done, ensembles!

Recorder Ensemble -- "LaVolta"

Our recorder players are all in their first year and they are doing excellent work. The song is one of the one;s we performed at the Renaissance Faire. The funny exchange about drumming an example of the contrasting musical visions we try to encourage...up to a point.

Yesterday's Performance a great success!

Yesterday our choir and recorder ensemble joined forces with Jane Raphael's K-1-2 class for perform what I hope is the first of many collaborative shows. Putting together a variety by combining several smaller productions that classes at the school makes, I think, for some very interesting creative synergy.

Sir Duke Break -- Measures 7 & 8

Here are the last two measures. You'll notice the first part is just straight pentatonic scale run from G to High A. Try to use good crossover technique. Good job!

Sir Duke Break -- Measures 5 & 6

In my view measures 5 & 6 present the greatest challenge, but if you take it slow and follow the two forward one back pattern of the mallets you'll be fine. Almost done.

Sir Duke Break -- Measures 3 & 4

Here are measures 3 and 4, once again with a slower version and then slightly faster. You're halfway there!

Sir Duke Break -- Measures 1 & 2

Here are the opening two measures of the break. All the videos have both a slowed down and slightly faster version for you to try,

Hey Fifth Grade Xylophone Players -- here's the break from Sir Duke along with the music including note names. Next week I hope to start lending out xylophones so you can practice at home.

It may seem challenging, but don't be intimidated. I will be putting up additional video of the break in two measure phrases so you can learn it bit by bit.

Fifth Grade Culmination Song #3 - "Sir Duke"

Hi Fifth Graders. Here is the 3rd and final song we will be singing for culmination. Remember we will be performing this song in a slightly different key, but this should give you a pretty good idea of how to sing this great Stevie Wonder song. And remind me to tell you about "records' in class.

Recorder Ensemble -- "Zemer Atik/Part B"

Here's the B section and at the end of the video a demonstration of how the entire piece sounds played at normal speed.

Recorder Ensemble -- "Zemer Atik/Part A"

Here's the first section of Zemer Atik, slowed down a bit. We only have five weeks till the end of school so get to work everybody.

Recorder Ensemble -- Playing the Egyptian Scale

Hi Recorder Ensemble Members -- here is a short lesson that teaches you how to make the G# and how it fits into the Dominant Phrygian (aka Egyptian Mode). Give a listen as these are skills you will need to plsy "Zemer Atik."

5th Graders -- "Imagine" Karioke Version

HI 5th graders -- one of your classmates was kind enough to send this to me to post for all of you. It is a Karioke version of "Imagine" which you may find useful for practicing.

Recorder Ensemble also presents "Tourdion"

We also recorded this famous, but very challenging French piece. This kids did a fantastic job!

Recorder Ensemble presents "La Volta"

Welcome back from Spring break! When last we left the Recorder ensemble they were performing wonderfully at the Renaissance Faire. Alas, I did not get good video of their performance. I sought to rectify that today by videotaping two of their songs. This first one, "La Volta" was written by Michael Praetorius, one of the great recorder composers of the Middle Ages. Enjoy!

"Imagine" - 5th grade culmination song #2

Hi fifth graders: Here is the second song we will be doing for culmination. Please give it a listen over the break and have a great vacation.

K-1-2 performs "The Right Biome"

A preview of coming attractions -- later this year, Ms. Raphael's K-1-2 class will be performing the musical "The Right Biome." Here's an early look at one of he songs from the show.

Third Grade and Ensembles perform "Ungaresca"

Here's some video of the finale of the Recorder Ensemble and Choir performance. We were joined by the combined third grade classes for a dance to the medieval song "Ungaresca," which they choreographed themselves.

Huzzah!

On Tuesday evening we held our Renaissance Faire/Art Show/Open House. This was a bit earlier than last year and it was a bit of a scramble to get everything ready. All the hard work really paid off, with was what everybody seemed to agree was the best faire ever. All though I suspect "food trucks" would have been the answer to the question what was the most outstanding feature, they were many excellent displays and performances including the incredible Art Show put together by Mrs. Mutchnick, excerpts from "Romeo and Juliet" by Mr. Anderson's class, multiple dance performances courtesy of Miss Cynthia, fencing lessons, fortune telling, print making and lots more. It was a great day!

On the music department side both the choir and the recorder ensembles made their debut. I was extremely pleased with the job they did! We also had grade level dances from first grade and third grade and a preview of a show Jane Raphael's class will be performing later on the year entitled "The Right Biome." Amazing work from everyone!

I want to take a moment to pay special tribute to my colleagues Amy Mutchnick who put together a beautiful display of the children's art throughout the year, Cynthia Miltenberger who put together an wonderful dance program and still found time to shoot some video for me (see above) and Cathy Weiss who thought it all up. Congratulations to you all on a job well done.

Tinilinking times two

This week in music many grade levels prepared for the Renaissance Faire on April 12 and 5th grade continued to learn their culmination. However, we did manage to get some singing and dancing for Kinder, 2nd and 4th. 2nd grade spend another week working on their tinikling dancing, this time using four sticks. Kindergarten continued to develop their understanding of the relationship between rhythm in spoken language and music using the song/game "Who Has A Penny." And 4th grade learned a little bit about chromaticism using the Hebrew song "Tumba."

"Greensleeves" -- for First Grade

Hi First Graders. Here is a recording of "Greensleeves" the way we will do it for the Renaissance Faire. I'm putting this up so you can practice the words to the song in class or at home. I am also putting the lyrics up for you. Feel free to print them out (clicking on them makes their appear bigger on the computer screen.)

Music from China/Dancing from the Philippines

Not all the music classes these last couple of weeks have been devoted to preparation from the Renaissance Faire. This week, for example, the second graders learned a Chinese fishing song -- "Pu Yu Ko" -- and experimented with a form of pole dancing from the Philippines called "tinikling." The object is to hop in when the polls are apart and out when the polls come together. This takes anticipation, team work and in the beginning a little luck. The kids enjoyed it so much we will be continuing working with the poles next week.

"La Volta" - Score

Here's the sheet music to accompany the video posted earlier. See if you can "sight read" the second part.

Recorder Ensemble -- "La Volta"

Hi Recorder Ensemble players -- here is a video for the final piece we will be doing for the Renaissance Faire. Sorry to be getting it up so late. Fortunately it is a very easy piece. I'll be posting the music separately.

Fifth Grade Culmination - "Come So Far (Got So Far To Go)"

Hi Fifth Graders -- as promised here are the lyrics and a recording of our culmination song "Come So Far," from the musical "Hairspray." Give it a listen!