Tell the story of the writing of the Star Spangled Banner. “Sing it in B-flat! There is a complete lack of resonance in young voices if they sing it any lower. To breathe between the adjective and its noun is as criminal as trampling on the flag, in my humble, musical opinion! The most common error in phrasing is the ripping of the flag at: ‘O, say does that star-spangled-breaaathe-banner yet wave’. And phrasing is the key to artful performance. If it is given too much importance, the singer can’t make it to the end of the first phrase-can’t make it to the ‘light’. The ‘O’ at the beginning introduces the question that is the whole first verse. “My advice to them is to ensure that each word has its place. “This is the warning I give the students as they attempt the daunting task of executing this national treasure-don’t mind the pun! They frequently ask to sing it in class and at performance.”-Lynn Chasanov, Cannon School, Danville, IL “The students feel an ownership of and connection to this song. “Because of the thoughtful and timely discussions that may ensue, it is a very endearing and powerful experience for the students. Along with the music and lyric study, we spend a significant amount of time discussing the Battle of Fort McHenry, and how Francis Scott Key must have felt suddenly being in the middle of a terrifying experience. “This is a lesson plan that works very well with 3-5 graders. They LOVE it! Of course, I go all out to recreate Francis Scott Key’s experience.”-Melissa Ellenberger, Woodmen Hills Elementary, Peyton, CO Here are their ideas to inspire you as your students prepare to perform the Star Spangled Banner this school year. National Anthem: Tips and Lesson Plans for Performing and CelebratingĮarlier this summer, we asked NAfME members to share their tips and lesson plans for teaching and performing the National Anthem.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |