Recital Day

The perfect activity for the end of the year with any grade level. Students must sign-up ahead of time in order to participate, and they must cross their names off before class starts if they want to withdraw. Some of my favorite classes were "recital days" because students shared amazing talents. Everything from singing to dancing to skits to jumping on a pogo stick while playing the trumpet (yes, it happened, and I couldn't stop laughing).

As the teacher, it's a great opportunity for you to observe student relationships in the class. Do the students feel comfortable performing for each other? Do they clap and cheer each other on? Some of my high school students let me know that they could tell that the group grew close during the year, because otherwise recital day wouldn't have turned out so well. It became the "buzz" around the elementary school, and the school custodian told me students were telling him all about what they were performing. What a great way to end the year.

And be prepared . . . they'll want you to perform, too, so get ready!

Ask First, Then Tell

Don't be afraid to ask your students what they think of a performance. Each time you practice a piece, ask them to reflect on how it sounded. I like to start by asking what they did well and if they effectively changed anything we've been focusing on in rehearsal. Then, I ask what they want to improve. Asking their opinions before I give them mine allows them to take ownership of their performance. It makes them pay attention, listening to themselves and others, while singing. It also causes them to take pride in their performance when they improve.