2nd Grade Instrument Invention Project

2nd graders have been studying "found sounds," music that is made by things that aren't actual instruments, but rather things you might find and/or assemble. We've watched many examples of found sound music, talked about the science behind how these instruments operate, and now it's our turn to create! Students will be designing their own instrument at home to bring to music class next week. These instruments should have be well-planned in design, creatively made, sturdy, and be able to make at least two musical sounds. Remember, 2nd graders, to ask for your parents help with anything sharp or electric, and ask permission to use materials.

I've linked some of the videos we've watched in class, as well as other ideas and projects that you might want to explore! I'm so excited to see your creations!

Video Links
Vienna Vegetable Orchestra

Touch Tone Phone Symphony

Stomp 

The Sound of Ahh

Project Links
Make your own trumpet

DSO Make Your Own Instrument links

·         Build Your Own Xylophone

·         Buzzing Brass Mouthpiece

·         Make A Woodwind Instrument

·         Make A String Instrument

·         Tin Can Telephone

·         Shakin' Maracas

·         Brass Instruments Uncoiled

·         Clay Pot Chimes

·         Coffee Can Drums

Make Your Own Homemade Drums, Kazoos, Flutes, and String Instruments

What is this recorder supposed to sound like???

 The 4th grade classes are getting back into the swing of things with our recorders after a little break to focus on some other units. As we learn more pitches, some of us were having trouble with our technique and were experiencing some "squeaks." One class, frustrated by this setback, asked to see some examples of good recorder playing. I was so pleased that these young musicians want to see what is out there, what there is to aspire to. So, here are just a few examples that I found with a very quick search, but there are SO many examples and resources out there, kiddos! Explore and find something that you want to learn to play! (I think a "student's choice" assignment might be in our future!)

5 Baroque Pieces for Soprano Recorder

Can You Feel the Love Tonight? (from The Lion King)

Let It Go (from Frozen) - this video has fingering charts so you can learn to play it

The Sound of AHH

Our 2nd graders did a really interesting listening activity last week, inspired by Susan Riley at EducationCloset.com and her "Hear-Think-Wonder" strategy. We listened to this Kurt Schneider (from the group the Pentatonix) rendition of the song "Little Talks" (orginally by Of Monsters and Men). We listened first, thought about what we might be hearing (Was there one performer or more than one? What instruments were they using?), asked questions (I wonder why the high string and the low string instrument alternated the melody), and then finally watched the video to compare what we thought we had heard to what was actually happening. I promised the kids I would post the video here so they can find it easily. Enjoy!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osQuqFlLIcs