My name is Mrs. Ruth Steffes. IÕve been the music teacher at SHS for 5 years. I teach music using a method called Orff-Schulwerk. This method is based on things that children like to do: sing, chant rhymes, clap, dance and keep a beat on anything near at hand. We hear and make music first then read and write music later which is the same way we learned our language.
Orff-Schulwerk is designed for all children not just the talented or selected few. Each child contributes according to ability. Orff-Schulwerk happens in a noncompetitive atmosphere where one of the rewards is the pleasure of making good music with others.
In a music class, we first learn a song or rhyme. Then we use body percussion such a patting, clapping or snapping to accompany our song.
Next we use unpitched instruments such as triangles, woodblocks, and drums to accompany the song.
Next we use special Orff melody instruments such as wooden xylophones and metal glockenspiels to accompany our songs. Our Home and School Association has purchased 15 barred instruments for us to use.
Next we add movement to the song. We use some of the dance steps that we learned last year from our folk dancer and we add our own.
Next we learn how to improvise. This means that we create our own songs according to the teacherÕs guidelines.
Starting in first grade, we learn to take rhythmic dictation. I play a rhythm on rhythm sticks and the students write the rhythm down on paper.
Also starting in first grade, we learn how to put notes on the staff.
Starting in Kindergarten, we learn the notes of the scale using Solfeg which is Do, Re, Mi, Fa, Sol, La, Ti, Do. We learn these notes using hand signs.
Current research indicates that children need a balance between emotional and intellectual stimulation to develop as healthy human beings. Orff-Schulwerk provides this balance through total, active, involvement in music making. Parents are welcome to visit our music class anytime.
Come and see what we are creating!

12/12/08