Each choral reading begins this way: “In Rehearsal Today and Throughout This Week..."

     If you want your students to use critical thinking about specific objectives during rehearsal, try introducing the objectives through choral readings. A few years ago I wrote choral readings for my band students, but it was not until this year that my schedule has allowed me to use them consistently. The students thoroughly enjoy this approach in each grade level: 6th, 7th, and  8th grade band.

Procedure Used:
On Monday, when the students enter the room, they see the objective posted on
the screen.  For example: "Objective for the week: Using 'Empty Time' During Rehearsal.” Immediately after the warm-up I display the choral reading and begin reading. I make use of a wide range vocal inflection, adjust the tempo when reading, and use a variety of dynamics while speaking. In-other-words, I make it fun. I read a phrase, and the students repeat the phrase, using the same inflection/s, dynamics, etc. that I use - until the reading is completed.  

     As the week progresses, I ask questions to remind the students to focus upon the objective of the week; reviewing what they learned on Monday during choral reading. During the rest of the week, during the “empty time,” the time when I am working with a section, the other band students write in their notebooks. They write “little letters” to me, sharing what they are doing/thinking to incorporate the weekly objective. (Many of the students have shared how much this has helped them and how much they enjoy participating in the choral reading each Monday.)

     The "Empty Time” choral reading is attached. At the present time, seventeen choral readings are "ready to go." If you are interested, let me know and I will be glad to share them with you. (The uploaded sample is a word document to make it easy for you to make adjustments/changes that might better fit your teaching situation.) Other topics: Articulation, Caring for Others, Choirs of Sound, Dynamics, Instrument Care, Intonation, Key Signatures, Learning Desire, Posture, Practicing, Rehearsal Expectations, Strengthen My Mind, Subdivide, and Watch the Conductor.  ~Pamela Rezach