In 3rd grade we build on our 2nd grade skills by expanding our rhythmic knowledge, but take the big step of learning the music alphabet (absolute pitch) and the Treble (G) Clef staff. We apply this new knowledge to our Soprano Recorder unit, which is the first time students are asked to practice outside of the music classroom. We explore new tonalities with resting tones and major ("do"-based) and minor ("la"-based) extended pentatonic scales.
Review 2nd Grade Content
New Rhythms
Whole note (du-u-u-u) and whole rest
8th-quarter-8th - "syncopation"
8th-16th-16th combination (Du-de-ta)
16th-16th-8th combination (du-ta-de)
Dotted half note (Du-u-u)
New Solfege
extended pentatone
low la
low so
high do
Do-centered Major tonality
La-centered Minor tonality
Absolute Pitch
Music Alphabet
Treble (G) Clef
3rd Grade performs at Evening of the Arts in the spring
We typically begin our soprano recorder unit after the new year. This is a very fun and engaging unit that lays the foundation for beginning band and orchestra next year in 4th grade.
Each student will need to obtain their own recorder (either purchase new, or use an older siblings) and bring it to class each week. This is very exciting as it is usually the first time students have their own instrument that they can practice. Instrument typically run between $5 and $10. I strongly suggest finding a "three-piece" recorder to make cleaning it easier. It does not matter what color you choose, as long as it is a "soprano" recorder.
Below I have suggested a local music store and some websites where you can order a recorder.
Music Store:
Music & Arts
Lawrence Shopping Center
1991 Sproul Road Unit 26
Broomall, PA 19008
Phone: 610-356-4674
Online:
West Music Amazon
Yamaha YRS-24B Yamaha 20 Series
3rd graders have the opportunity to join Russel Cub Choir in the spring. See that page for additional details