27th Annual Student Research Conference
Modeling in the Middle School Band Classroom
Joel E. Fischer♦
Dr. Thomas J. Trimborn, Faculty Mentor
This research project explores best practice techniques of modeling in the middle school band classroom. Three performance elements, tone, intonation, and technique, have been identified and will be assessed after using a sixteen week curriculum that emphasizes best practice modeling techniques. The tonal section of the curriculum employs the Breathing Gym Daily Exercises DVD and emphasizes a system of singing exercises, listening exercises, and play along resources to develop a mature sound concept. The intonation section focuses on pitch discrimination and techniques of pitch-matching utilizing an iPad application called the TonalEnergy Tuner. Finally, the technique section employs selected excerpts from traditional methods that focus on pattern singing, notation application, and sight reading to develop rhythmic skills, articulation, and sight reading ability. Each section focuses on developing student skills through demonstration by a professional musician and utilizing the Suzuki philosophy of Mother tongue learning.
Keywords: Modeling, Music Education, Technology, Suzuki Method, Band, Curriculum
Topic(s):Music
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 306-3
Location: OP 2117
Time: 1:30