Submitted by Kristin Lukow, Nebraska
Idea posted December 19, 2001
My 6th graders started "Whacky March From The Nutcracker" today (from Music K-8, Vol. 12, No. 2). I wanted to see how it would work with them, and it was INCREDIBLE!
We looked at the music first. Then, we clapped the rhythms alone, then clapped the rhythms with the music. I gave each student a part highlighted on their own music. Then, we clapped the piece with each student clapping their own part. I was amazed at their proficiency with this!
Finally, we added Boomwhackers®, and they LOVED it! They want two boys to play the part of two nutcrackers when they perform. They are so into it! I had an aide in the room with our autistic girl, and she was floored by their musicality!
This piece is just fantastic. Each part is not difficult, but when you put the whole thing together... wow! Thanks, again, Paul and Teresa!