Wednesday, June 5, 2013

Introducing Note Reading to Pre-Reading Students, Part 2

Well, life has been totally crazy, but I want to quickly share a NEW (FREE) printable piece of sheet music!  This particular piece is written for an easy, simple violin duet.  Which piece is it, you ask?  Hot Cross Buns!  It doesn't get much simpler than that.  The first violin part uses fingers, while the second violin uses open strings only, and both parts stay on the A and E strings.

I have two versions available: one with staff lines, and one (even simpler and easier to read) without staff lines.  How does that work without staff lines?  And why?  Just check out my post about a simple step you can take in teaching note reading so it's not overwhelming.  The no-staff-lines approach is meant to be a temporary stepping stone for very young, pre-reading students who are transitioning to note reading.

So, here you go!  Enjoy!

Hot Cross Buns With Staff Lines
Hot Cross Buns Without Staff Lines

You may also be interested in a similar arrangement of Mary Had a Little Lamb With Staff Lines or Mary Had a Little Lamb Without Staff Lines.

Friday, April 12, 2013

Recital Schmecital, Part 5 - Recognition Certificates for Your Studio Recital

A little affirmation goes a long way!!  Who doesn't like to receive recognition for their achievements from time to time?  What great motivation comes from knowing you've done a great job!  Music students put so much work into preparation for a musical performance, and a little recognition can go a long way.  It can be something as simple as handing out certificates after a recital.  This is something very simple for you to prepare, but it's exciting, especially for young students, to receive an official-looking certificate to say, "well done!"

I've prepared a variety of printable recital certificates for you to use!  You can write in the student's name, the date and place of the performance, and then sign it.  I hope they can bring a smile to your students' faces and that they motivate them to keep on going strong.







Outstanding Performance Award!
This is a colorful recognition certificate, which has a slightly casual feel to it.  







 





 Certificate of Excellence
This recognition certificate has a very formal look.












Bravo! Award
This certificate is less formal and has a fun border of musical notes/symbols.















Bravo! Award in Color
This certificate is like the one directly above, but it is bright and colorful.












What other ideas have you used to congratulate your students on a great performance?