When the song is well known, have the class stand up each time they come to the words, “We love to sing!” Later, divide the class into two groups. Have one group sing the “alleluias” and the other group sing, “We love to sing!” Have each group stand up when it is their turn to sing.

Denise Tip: I like to have both groups stand and sing the final two measures, “We love to sing!”

Read the rhythms and the solfa (or pitch letter names).

"Plainsies, Clapsies" is a ball bouncing game. While you sing, you try to bounce a ball and do all the actions that are indicated by the words of the song.

Teach “Chester”. Read the rhythms in the song.

This song is used to teach or review tempo terms. Play one verse or sing the song to the students. Teach them the actions for the song. Tell the students you’re going to try singing "Chester" at several different tempos. The actions get more and more challenging as the tempo increases. Repeat the song four times, getting faster each time. When you teach or review a musical term, add that term to your musical word wall.

Playing and Creating: Invite students to create 8-16 beat drumming patterns with rhythm sticks on the floor (or on beat boards) between repetitions of the song.

Option 1: Video - The Composer is Dead (30 min)

This is a YouTube link.
If the link is broken, google The Composer is Dead

The book was commissioned by the San Francisco Symphony, and premiered at Davies Symphony Hall on July 8, 2006, with Daniel Handler narrating and Edwin Outwater conducting. The orchestral work has since been performed at several other orchestras. The book was written in order to introduce children to the different instruments.

Fill 4 tubs or hoops with instruments and enjoy playing along with music.

If students are open to it, have a free dance time too!

The song "Come on Dance" follows to get your students creating movement!

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