Thank you for your interest in Amazing Arioso!

This course is designed to help children experience the highest level of musical thinking. The word "arioso" comes from classical music terminology, but a leading music education expert has applied it in a modern way. Inspired by the "First Steps in Music" program created by Dr. John Feierabend, arioso is simply the practice of making up songs. Arioso can come in many forms, including (from easiest to most difficult):
- Short tunes sung on neutral syllables (Level 1)
- "Question-and-answer" improvisation with a partner (Level 1 & 3)
- Improvising a song using familiar words (for example, a popular nursery rhyme) (Level 2)
- Answering a question using spontaneous words and tune (Level 3)

This class is intended to be an “exposure” class, so students will quickly be introduced to all three levels.

We will begin class with a brief voice warm-up and then begin playing simple arioso games using props. As students demonstrate more confidence, we will attempt some more difficult exercises - including a journey to the wonderful "Kingdom of Sing!" Some games might use instrumental accompaniment, others might use music-making technology to assist us, and some games will simply be a cappella.

This is a highly interactive class based on the philosophy that "any response is the right response," and students will be expected to "stick together" with "no hurts" so that "everyone can have fun." Though I hope that all students will be ready to take a risk and participate, I am also happy to have students who learn with the "ears and eyes" before trying some of the games on their own after class. Because singing is most fun when it is done in community, I invite parents to participate along with their child (for privacy purposes within Outschool, please remain off-screen as you do so). Families will be provided with a list of arioso ideas to encourage continued music making outside of class.

It is helpful for participants to be comfortable singing in a healthy "head voice," but this is not required. No other knowledge or experience is required other than a willingness to be creative and try to have fun!

*Parents of children with special needs: In addition to public school music and special education experience, I have two children with special needs of my own. I am happy to welcome your child into my classroom and will do my best to set them up for success. If you have any concerns or ideas about how I can support your child in this class, please don’t hesitate to contact me!