Watch the video above to see a performer from an off-Broadway theater in New York City.
Match the Beat
Have each person in your family choose a song they like to listen to. Play the music and see if everyone can clap, stomp, dance, or walk along to the beat. Experiment with different body parts or try drumming the beat on your couch or countertop.
Create your own Funky Family Rhythms
Start a steady rhythm by stomping your feet—think of yourself as a metronome. Have another family member create a corresponding rhythm by clapping their hands. Experiment to find a clapping rhythm that complements the steady feet stomping. If you have additional family members with you, encourage them to add an additional rhythm on top of the two that are established. They can use their hands, feet, or an entirely new body part.
Challenges
Speed it up
Slow it down
Move around the room while keeping the beat
Beat Showdown
Now it’s time for a funky family challenge! Who in your family can create the most challenging choreography, and who can dance with the fastest feet? If you have a printer, you can print and individually complete this challenge sheet (one per person).Exchange challenges and take a minute or two to practice the dance as written by your family member. Once each of you has practiced, it’s time to perform for each other! Who can perform the prescribed dance with the fewest mistakes? Clap a very steady beat for the family member who is performing. Next, put on some music and perform your choreography to the beat of the song!
In fourth grade music class, we usually learn "The Erie Canal" song. Check out this video to hear the song and learn about the Erie Canal!
Check out the video below to see Billy Joel and Jimmy Fallon create loops and their own music arrangement live. Enjoy!