Using Physical Warm Ups for Vocal Success

Mrs. Nita Smith, I.T. Creswell Arts Magnet Middle School

&Mr. Franklin J. Willis, W.H. Oliver Middle School

Metro Nashville Public Schools

2012 TMEA Convention , Chattanooga, TNFriday, April 13, 2012,

CCC Room 7-8

Displaying Our Emotions Through Singing

Angry

Sad

Excited

Silly

Joyful

Why should I use kinesthetic movements in the choral

classroom?

16 Beat Rhythm Exercise

• Speak the rhythm using Takademi syllables.

• Clap the rhythm while speaking syllables.

• Clap the rhythm without speaking.

• Assign body percussion for each note.

• Example (eighth note=clap) (quarter note=stomp) (half note=snake) (whole note-robot)

• Teacher models for students.• Students and Teacher complete

together.• Students alone!• NOW it is time for CREATIVITY!

Video Example

Applying Rhythm to Vocal Warm Up

*Students can sing on neutral syllable “la”*

*Students can use solfeggio syllables*

*Students can use the number system*

VIDEO EXAMPLE # 2

Benefits of Physical Warm-ups:

It fosters a positive classroom environment

It helps singers to get in tune with their bodies

Movement stimulates creativity

Models & guides students to make musical connections of their own

Moving to music is fun!

A great transition to segue naturally into the vocalization period

Refines listening skills Focuses concentration Reinforces technique Warm-ups serve as a

link to curriculum standards & repertoire

Did you say FUN in the classroom?

F is for Functional

U is for Understanding

N is for Nurturing

Activate the Singing Voice Mental Focus

Energize Students Vocal Teaching & Technique

Target & Fix Problems Improve Choral Tone & Blend

Classroom Management

Sooooo…Physical Warm-Ups Can:

Using Physical Warm-Ups for Vocal Success

Mrs. Nita SmithI.T. Creswell Arts Magnet Middle

Nita.Smith@mnps.org

Mr. Franklin J. WillisW.H. Oliver Middle

Franklin.Willis@mnps.org