Introduction to Musical Instruments

Every week little learners will be introduced to a different musical instrument from my extensive instrument collection. Alongside common instruments like guitar, piano, or drums, we will have the chance to learn about more unusual music makers like the hurdy-gurdy, gamelan, and bassoon! 

In each session we will learn about different methods of sound generation (strings, brass, woodwind, percussion, electronic), how different notes or sounds are produced on the instrument, and age-appropriate elements of ear training and musical theory (instrument identification, how notes and rhythms are organised and notated).

Classes will include an explanation of how each instrument works–including a live demonstration. We'll cover a little bit of the history, development, and use of the instrument and talk about what types of musical situations we might find them in. Each class will also feature a participatory activity such as a mini jam/dance-along, listening game, or DIY instrument build (specific instructions and supplies will be posted weekly in advance of each class).

Upcoming class topics:

October (Reeds) 
wk1 Bassoon
wk 2 Recorder & Whistles
wk 3 Clarinet
wk 4 Harmonica ** Activity: Rubber band harmonica **
wk 5 Accordion & Shruti

November (Percussion)
wk 1 Drum (snare)
wk 2 Hand percussion ** Activity: Tin can shaker **
wk 3 Glockenspiel
wk 4 Piano 

December (Strings) 
wk 1 Guitar a/o Mandolin  ** Activity: Tissue box guitar **
wk 2 Violin
wk 3 Autoharp
wk 4 Hurdy Gurdy 

January (Brass)
wk 1 Natural Horn & Trumpet
wk 2 Trombone ** Activity: Cardboard tube trombone
wk 3 Music Boxes
wk 4 Show and tell (Bring Your Own Musical Instrument!)