Vocal Improvisation with Rhythm Sticks

This can help students, especially some who might be afraid of singing, to explore their voices musically through group improvisation.

1. Teacher sits down with a pair of rhythm sticks and says, “I bought a violin today at the shop. Want to see it?”
   • Students say, “Yes!”
2. Teacher shows them a pair of sticks.
   • Students will laugh and say, “That’s not a violin. It’s a pair of sticks!”
3. Teacher says, “Oh. How do play a violin?”
   • Students mimic playing a violin.
4. Teacher says, “Oh. If make that movement, will you at least make the sound of a violin while I play? That would cheer me up.”
   • Students make the sound of (and show how to play) trumpets, flutes, guitars, cellos, etc.
5. Repeat with any number of “instruments.”
   • Soloists can sing
   • The class can choose a song to “play” like Twinkle.