Teaching The Idea Of Major/Minor To Students

Submitted by Judy Schneider, Kettering, Ohio

Idea posted May 11, 2004

Working with resonator bell sets or tone chimes, have the kids play "Frère Jacques" from a chart (either with notation or letter names, whichever works best with your kids). Then, substitute the lowered tones and play again. Students pick up on the difference right away since it is so obvious.

For a great follow up, play the second movement of Mahler's 1st Symphony. It uses the "Frère Jacques" tune in minor and even does the round. It's very spooky and a good October tune.