http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iskqm0IqzKQ&list=PLD0E8302D68EA38CD
Title: Yellow Bird
Performer: Couple of Michio Wu (I'm not sure this is correct, but I didn't see anything else)
Culture/Origin: unknown - My best guess is it is England because tone bells originated in England and tone chimes are a variation on tone bells.
Orchestration: Tone Bells
In thinking about the application of world music in classrooms, it can be easier to think way outside the box and negate english speaking countries as too easy or too close to American culture. Tone chimes are not something that is widely known about in American society as a valuable musical experience. These instruments, however, create a great tone, while allowing younger students to be able to focus on rhythm with a pitch attached to it. The harmonies are not far out from what American listeners would be used to, but the use of the instrument is not something we are used to. I think these are valuable instruments to consider when incorporating world music into the curriculum and are basic enough to be used for lower levels, but can become very difficult for higher levels. I especially like these instruments because the tone quality is much nicer than a recorder. While the recorder has more note options and can be qualified by that reason, it would drive me crazy to teach it for a long period of time. The tone chimes are a valuable alternative that can be beneficial in many different ways.
What a cool video! I definitely agree with your point that this is a good instrumentation to try and teach even if it is from an English speaking country. I feel that any country different from the US is appropriate when teaching world music. What I also like about this instrument is that it is helpful for all different types of learners in the classroom. If someone is an aural learner, this will help this listen for pitches. If they are a visual learner, they can see the pitches going from lower to higher on the tone bells. Also for a kinesthetic learner, this is a great exercise for them to start actually doing something to speed along their learning process. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jake too! I laughed when I first started watching the video. It would be also a really cute show piece on a concert with the different choreography. The parents would love that! hahaha
ReplyDeleteThis is also a really good exercise to learn how to work together on a melody and harmony as partners or in a group.
Great video!
Wow what a great find! ive never seen anything like this, i also was laughing too at first. I wasn't sure what to expect with this instruments since i have never seen it before, i was clueless to what they were going to do with the bells in their hands. as the song progressed i found myself bouncing along to the beat and thoroughly enjoying it! I also agree with jake about the different types of learners. Kids can watch and listen so everyone in the classroom is engaged and hopefully understanding!
ReplyDeleteThere is a actually a substantial handchime thread in music education, often connected with church music. Did you notice the origin of the music? Perhaps you might have after yesterday's class...
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