Managing a beginner band can be a rewarding yet challenging experience, especially when it comes to the percussion section. This article provides music teachers with practical strategies to make percussion more engaging and enjoyable for students, even when faced with a large number of drummers.
Handling the percussion section is often one of the most daunting tasks for a band director, particularly in elementary school settings. Keeping all the drummers engaged and enthusiastic during rehearsals can be tough, especially if the director lacks a percussion background.
One crucial realization is that students are often drawn to percussion because they want to play the drum set. The drum set is a prominent feature in school bands, and students may feel sidelined if they aren't playing it. The key is to shift their focus from being just "drummers" to becoming well-rounded "percussionists."
When you have multiple drummers, it's essential to distribute roles effectively. For instance, one student can play the snare drum, another the bass drum, and a third the cymbals. This setup ensures that everyone is actively participating, even if a "drum kit" part is written out. Encourage students to stand while playing the snare drum, cymbals, and concert bass drum, creating a dynamic and engaging environment.
An auxiliary percussion table is indispensable. Instruments like tambourines, triangles, and shakers are often more critical to the band's sound than the snare drum or drum set. Ensure these instruments are easily accessible and that students stand while playing them. This setup not only improves sound quality but also keeps students engaged.
Warming up can be a frustrating time for percussionists if they are left idle while wind players tune up. Here are some strategies to keep them engaged:
Beginner band books often lack the variety and depth needed to keep percussionists engaged. Supplement these materials with additional resources focusing on basic rudiments and rolls. This approach ensures that students receive a well-rounded education in percussion.
Deciding whether all percussionists should play mallets depends on the band's dynamics. Some band books, like the "Standard of Excellence," separate snare drum/bass drum and mallet percussion parts, while others, like "Essential Elements," have dedicated books for each. Encourage rotation among percussionists to give them a comprehensive experience, even if it means they need multiple books.
Improving the percussion section in a beginner band requires thoughtful planning and creativity. By implementing these strategies, band directors can create a more engaging and enjoyable experience for their percussionists.
For more insights on managing beginner bands, check out NAfME and the University of Kansas study.
By adopting these strategies, you can transform your percussion section into a cohesive and dynamic part of your beginner band.
The Transformative Power of Music Education
Music education offers a multitude of benefits for young children, significantly enhancing their cognitive, emotional, and social development. This article delves into three compelling reasons why integrating music into the curriculum is crucial for young learners, supported by extensive research and fascinating statistics.
The Benefits of Music for Young Children
An article about the specific intelligence and learning benefits of music for young children
Music Software and how it has changed in the last 10 years
A musicians description of how you can write music and record CD's using simple equipment and free or low cost software.
