We are going to listen to a song that comes from many decades ago. Keep the steady beat by tapping your feet. (Optional: display some 1920s photo booth props held with sticks, such as masks hairstyles, hats, old-fashioned microphones, mustaches, instruments, etc. )
As you listen to the song, take turns choosing a prop to borrow. Costumes may help transport you to another time in history much like putting on a play or musical.
Can you guess what decade this music was created? (1920s)
What makes this music sound old fashioned? (instruments that were prominent almost a century ago: string bass, muted trumpets, banjo, piano played with an old-time feel)
Sing the melody together. Work on clear diction and rhythmic precision. When the song changes, ask:
How many vocal parts were sung? (two)
What is it called when two or more parts are performed at the same time? (harmony)
Challenge: learn the harmony part. (If using the score, it is part II.) This is almost a descant (an independent melody sung above another melody.) Work on holding out long notes and wide interval leaps.
When you know both parts, choose volunteers to sing Part II in a small group, while everyone else sings Part I. Continue several times until everyone has had a chance to try both parts.
Add a simple rhythmic accompaniment by playing drums and bongos on the strong beats, then tambourines and cabasas on the weak beats. When done correctly, you are playing in a two-beat feel (which was commonly used in the 1920s).
Perform by dividing into two groups to sing the song. Add 1920s photo props, costumes, and an old-time radio announcer to introduce the singers! Have fun with "Ain't We Got Fun!"
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