Choir Lesson Plan - Elementary Level
Procedure
Vocal Warm-ups:
Begin each session with a series of vocal warm-ups. Repeat each pattern, changing the starting tone by a half-step with each repetition. Warm-ups can move both up and down the scale. Experiment with adjusting the starting pitch and direction across sessions. (See worksheet)
Rounds:
Rounds are an excellent tool for introductory singing. Since each student learns the exact same vocal line, teaching the music moves quickly and efficiently. For each round, the next part enters at the marked letters in the score. (See worksheet)
- Alfred the Alligator (American Folk Song)
- C-O-F-F-E-E (German Folk Song)
- Have You Seen the Ghost of John? (Appalachian Folk Song)
- Heigh Ho (Folk Song)
- House is Burning! (English Folk Song)
- Music Alone Shall Live (German Folk Song)
- Viva la Musica! (Michael Praetorius)
- Who’ll Buy My Roses? (English Folk Song)
Two Part Singing:
These songs, written for two part singing, expand students’ knowledge of harmony. There is music sung both a cappella and with piano accompaniment. While slightly more challenging and time consuming to learn, these melodies will prove rewarding to sing and perform. (See worksheet)
- Tum Balalaika (Russian Folk Song)
- Vive la Compagnie! (French Folk Song)