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.
The grading process also echoes the methods of martial arts by including belts, ranked according to the following series:white, yellow, orange, green, purple, blue, red, brown and finally black. As each level is achieved, students receive the relevant colour belt. Some teachers add extra incentive by pinning trinkets and musical charms onto the belts for extra levels of effort and dedication shown in class.
In recorder karate however, there are no kicks, punches or duels which determine grading. To the contrary, it is determined by familiar songs which increase in technicality according to each level progression. For white belts, students must successfully play, "Hot Cross Buns", a song including notes, B, A and G. The final song required to achieve a black belt is Beethoven's, "Ode to Joy", consisting of 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.
Every teacher seems to have a different take on ways to modify this method. Some include gold or silver belts in the rankings, with their own advanced songs to master. Some teachers only focus on it for a small, allocated amount of time while others dedicate entire lessons to practicing and learning each song.
Books and easy guides on recorder karate are available both at selected outlets or online and include fingering techniques, practice worksheets and instructions on how to care for the instrument. Teachers have tried and tested its methodology, discovering both its pros and cons, and many have emerged avid fans of its routines and rewards. It has also proven to be an effective way to enhance other, older ways of teaching music to young children.
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.
The grading process also echoes the methods of martial arts by including belts, ranked according to the following series:white, yellow, orange, green, purple, blue, red, brown and finally black. As each level is achieved, students receive the relevant colour belt. Some teachers add extra incentive by pinning trinkets and musical charms onto the belts for extra levels of effort and dedication shown in class.
In recorder karate however, there are no kicks, punches or duels which determine grading. To the contrary, it is determined by familiar songs which increase in technicality according to each level progression. For white belts, students must successfully play, "Hot Cross Buns", a song including notes, B, A and G. The final song required to achieve a black belt is Beethoven's, "Ode to Joy", consisting of 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.
Every teacher seems to have a different take on ways to modify this method. Some include gold or silver belts in the rankings, with their own advanced songs to master. Some teachers only focus on it for a small, allocated amount of time while others dedicate entire lessons to practicing and learning each song.
Books and easy guides on recorder karate are available both at selected outlets or online and include fingering techniques, practice worksheets and instructions on how to care for the instrument. Teachers have tried and tested its methodology, discovering both its pros and cons, and many have emerged avid fans of its routines and rewards. It has also proven to be an effective way to enhance other, older ways of teaching music to young children.