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Fun in band?

Posted by Old Dog on 8/27/2024, 9:52 am

What do your beginning band and middle school band students find to be the most fun that they keep coming back for more?

I find myself being a “hard teacher” because we work every day. Many classes don’t so why would a kid want to take a class that they actually have to work?

Re: Fun in band?

Posted by Maybe on 8/28/2024, 9:41 am, in reply to "Fun in band?"

I'm pretty strict too but when it's not class time I'm relaxed and will joke with the kids. I think that helps them realize that when it's time for band it's time to get serious, so it's less them hating the work but more knowing the expectations. They enjoy seeing their hard work coming together into great songs, and even if we don't win any contest they like the memories of hanging out with each other and performing.

Band trips also go a long ways for some of these kids.

Re: Fun in band?

Posted by BD6 on 8/28/2024, 10:16 pm, in reply to "Re: Fun in band?"

This.

We work hard in class. We’re very upfront about that. But we also high five in the hallway, say hi and be friendly to every kid, and have monthly fun events for band kids only plus one a semester trips off campus for fun.

The work is the fun. When you can make them realize that everything else is easier. Procedures, routine, expectations and accountability are the keys to kids hearts. Add in friendly and fun interactions and you can win.

Plus music is awesome and band is the best. Half the middle school can’t be wrong.

Re: Fun in band?

Posted by pony boy on 8/28/2024, 7:58 am, in reply to "Fun in band?"

We do staff wars at the end of class. You can download it on Apple or Android products. We give the students score sheets so that everyone can participate, not just the person on the app.

We also use Darcy Williams Count Me In! and the students enjoy doing the rhythm duets and trios with nonsense syllables.

I feel like I could be considered a "hard teacher" as well but I'm always emphasizing how far the students have come in such a short time. eg. reading music in just 2 days or 3 days or work. We are always applying our count-tap-clapping and note identification to real snippets of music--the kids feel like they are achieving something real.

Emphasize their accomplishments and throw in a few of those fun things. If you want them singing and working on their aural skills, give them some kazoos. They'll have fun I promise.

Re: Fun in band?

Posted by BobsurUncle on 8/30/2024, 8:14 am, in reply to "Re: Fun in band?"

Find time to vist... nothing long, but maybe what's your favorite food. If it's a small class include everyone, or choose a section. Speaking, at first will be easier than them playing. It will prepare them to play alone, even it's just on mouthpiece.

Use a rock beat off of a keyboard to do exersizes.
Counting or naming music. Count rhythms with enthusiasm.
Have a fun fact or quote for the day.

Have individuals "solo" down the row. It can be a whole note, a rhythm for four counts. Put a 4 count rest in between each person to prepare the next person or give praise.

Have fun doing what you doning. Students will feed off of you enthusiasm. Smile, laugh and give praise!

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