Merry Christmas! I recently purchased a new book called KidStix by the great Artie Almeida. So far, I’ve only done one song from it (Tchaikovsky’s march from the Nutcracker), and I (and more importantly, my kids) LOVE IT!
What is KidStix?
KidStix is a book full of activities that can be played with a small assortment of percussion instruments and a pair of drum sticks (or rhythm sticks if you want to save a little $$). It ends up sort of having the feel of playing a mini-drum set. There are sections to work on rhythm patterns, as well as folksongs and orchestral and even pop music. It comes with some great visuals you can project or print out that clearly show what to play along with the music, and a CD full of music to play along with. It is basically a super amazing resource.
Why I love Kidstix
I am loving the March from the Nutcracker right now because it is a great recognizable holiday tune, the rhythms are nothing too difficult for the students to grasp (although it is recommended by the author – and myself – to teach the rhythms by ear first). And, one of the things my third, fourth and fifth graders are working on right now is learning famous composers – including Tchaikovsky. I LOVE when I can check off more than one box with the same activity!
And the most obvious reason (to me): the coolness level for the kids. They are so engaged and have so much fun with learning. I can’t wait to try out some of the other songs in the book. I love Almeida’s motto on her website – Heavy Academics Delivered Joyfully. Isn’t that what we strive for in every lesson we do? I want to be her when I grow up.
What Other Songs Are in the Book?
Some of the other songs in the book include:
- Who Let the Dogs Out
- Semper Fidelis
- The Olympic Fanfare
- Happy
- Can Can
and many more as well!
More March From the Nutcracker Fun!
How To Use a Nutcracker March Listening Map for an Amazing Nutcracker Lesson
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