MIDDLE SCHOOL/JUNIOR HIGH J E N N I F E R
G A L L A G H E R
Catching Choir
L
et the 2013–2014 choir games begin! By now you have likely sorted through all of your pregame conundrums—uniforms, voice placements, and forms galore! What is it about games? Our world is addicted to them. From Candy Crush to Sudoku, games can improve motor skills and are even shown to reduce stress and depression! From my room to yours, here is one of my most requested games:
4. If the pigs are cleared completely, the team advances to the next level (harder flash cards, standing farther away to throw, etc).
Angry Bird Sight Reading Items needed (all available on Amazon— I purchased my set at Walmart!): • Angry bird plush toy (at least one—ours is red) • Pig plush toys (variety of sizes & kinds) • Boxes (various heights & sizes) • Sight reading flash cards (rhythm or pitch)
Our summer convention is akin to the choral summer Olympics. I would be remiss without thanking Kari Gilbertson and the legacy she leaves on our division and the entire TCDA organization.
Setup: • A table with boxes, and pigs placed on the boxes • Two teams The Game: 1. Each team gets three chances to clear the boxes off the table per round, and then the boxes are reset. 2. When it is someone’s turn, they must read a flash card correctly for a chance to throw the bird at the pigs. 3. For every pig that falls off the table, that team gets a point.
HIGH SCHOOL continued from p. 19 their marvelous work in planning and executing the 2013 convention. Assembling such an amazing array of inspirational presenters is a Herculean endeavor, and one not to be taken for granted. A special debt of gratitude goes to the conductors and accompanists who bring the new music to life, as well as those volunteering their precious convention time to serve on the various committees. While their jobs are not glamorous, they are VITAL. Thank
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Texas Sings! · Fall 2013
Variations: 1. Evaluate students on: hand sign recognition, key signatures/finding do, etc. 2. Change size/color of bird thrown (for extra points) 3. Change box set up for more points
Our summer convention is akin to the choral summer Olympics. I myself am addicted to the “pinning” game, and found this quote on Pinterest: “Even when you’ve played the game of your life, it’s the feeling of teamwork that you’ll remember. You’ll forget the plays, the shots, and the scores, but you’ll never forget your teammates.” I wish you a wonderful year full of fun games and team building—and may the odds be ever in your favor!
you to Dr. Mark Rohwer for tireless efforts on behalf of the High School Division—as always, Mark, I am inspired by your vision! No other state convention offers the excellence, variety, and value available to TCDA members. I challenge each and every one of you to invite a colleague to join TCDA and make plans to attend the 2014 Convention. I am honored to be at your service.