Another great week!!

 August 27, 2021

Hi everyone!!  We have had another really great week in all music classes!!!  There is some REAL talent in this school!!! 

K-5th grades: 

 We have been reinforcing what we learned last year about rhythm, but also the kids have been starting to learn about SOLFEDGE syllables.  These are "Do-Re-Mi" etc...  Having the piano in our room this year has really helped!! And the kids are really enjoying it.   I am loving my time with these sweet ones... their smiles and hugs are priceless!! 

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6th and 7-8th grade "Introduction to Music"classes: 

  This past we have studied everything from the history of national anthems, to the music of the Renaissance!  We will be entering the Baroque Period this coming week, one of my favorite composers and music!  Bach, Handel and Vivaldi just to name a few!  I can't wait to get started!  We will also continue with our study of basic music theory.  These kids are great and I am so very honored to be their teacher!   

In His AMAZING love!! 

Mrs. Durrell \o/

     

Music! Music! Music!!!

 

August 20, 2021

Hi everyone!!!   

        The first full week of school is in the books!!  Phew!!!   I'll admit, this teacher is a bit tired, but also so excited about what I am seeing in the faces of these kids!!!  They are learning and being a part of that is simply awesome!!  

ELEMENTARY MUSIC: 

        First of all.... I am so in love with your kids!!!   We have had so much fun this week... they are all excited to see a piano in the music room (it was located elsewhere last year) and all want to learn to play it!  Be prepared if your child asks for piano lessons. :)    IN our classes this week, we have been getting to know one another again... learning some new songs and having lots of laughs.  Our focus has been on beginning rhythm with the younger grades, but also getting them to echo what I sing.  Echo singing  is a learned skill and they have been doing really well with it.  Next week we will be moving into more rhythms and starting basic solfege scale work.... basically  "Do-re-mi"   :) 

INTRODUCTION TO MUSIC: (6TH GRADE - 7/8 GRADES)

         In our classes, we have been doing a bit of everything...  They have been learning some music theory...so they can read some music now!  Bass clef, treble clef... the difference between a staff and a grand staff etc..  I am so very proud of them and next week we are going to be writing some basic compositions and learning how to play them on the piano!  

        We have also covered some Music appriectiation and Music History...  The kids have listened to.. (and pretty much decided they don't like) Gregorian Chants.  :)   They have learned the difference between secular and sacred music... and also have been listening to how music has evolved through the centuries.  

        Next week we will be moving into early Renaissance music and also learning about national anthems around the world...why countries have them and why they are important. 

       All in all, this week has been a busy one.. but alot of fun!  Your kids are great!!! 

Many blessings-

   Mrs. Durrell \o/

        

WOW!! What a week!!

August 13th

        What a week this has been!!  We have had a full week, even though we have really had only 2 1/2 days!  

        I won't start with the K-5th grade kids until next week, but this week has been full with both my 6th grade "Introduction to Music" class as well as my 7/8th grade "Introduction to Music" class.  We have spent this week in both classes laying a foundation for our work with music.  We have been learning to not until read but write some music... working with the basic framework of the treble clef staff and the bass cleff staff.  We have also learned about ledger lines.  The kids have done really well with all this. 

       We have also listened to some music... learning how music can effect emotions and help tell a story.  As part of our Music Appreciation, we are designating the final few minutes of Friday's class to contemporary soundtrack music... and/or musicals.  A good soundtrack will go a long way to help a filmaker (storyteller) tell a story. 

       This is going to be a great year and I am already totally in love with your kids!!  They are great and we are so thankful for each of them!  

God bless and have a great weekend! 

Mrs. Durrell \o/  

Welcome to a new year!!

 August 9, 2021

  Hello everyone!!   

        After this blog, I will be seperating all of the classes each week to update you on what we are doing in each one.. but, for this first one, I just wanted to say hello and WELCOME BACK!  As in every year, things are different this year in Music.  In addition to the K-5th grade classes, we will also be doing an "Introduction to Music" class for 6th grade, as well as the Middle School Chorus.  I am looking forward to the fun and challenges that this year will bring!  

        PARENTS:   Please forgive me for not getting out a supply list to you before now.  Our needs in Music are different than in other classes, but we do still always have a need for cleaning supplies : Paper Towels, Hand sanitizer and disinfectant to clean chairs and instruments between classes etc.  I would appreciate any and all help  with these!!!  

       Thank you!!  I am looking forward to getting to know your kids and spending the next year with them!!  I am praying for each of you and your families! 

       Love you!! 

         Mrs. Durrell