Summer SAVY, Session 1 Day 3, Math & Music (3rd-4th)
Good afternoon, SAVY Parents,
Can you believe it’s already Wednesday? This week is flying by—just like the saying goes, time flies when you’re having fun!
We kicked off the day with a lively review game called Musical Fraction War, which helped reinforce fraction notation and equivalence in a fun and interactive way.
Our main focus today was on patterns in music. Students explored how patterns—whether in melody, rhythm, harmony, or form—are essential to understanding musical style, improvisation, and composition. We introduced the concept of ostinato, a repeating musical pattern or motif that can be melodic, rhythmic, spoken, or even body percussion. These patterns are often used to create movement, structure, and memorable hooks in music. Students then composed their own ostinatos to accompany a song called Hummingbird, and their creativity really shone!
We were delighted to welcome a special guest speaker today—Mrs. Sherry Neergaard, President of the Phenix Advanced Club of Nashville and Secretary of the Cumberland Valley Western Square and Round Dance Association. Mrs. Neergaard introduced us to the lively world of contra dancing!
Students discovered the key differences between square dancing, which involves four couples arranged in a square formation, and contra dancing, where long lines of couples dance through a series of choreographed patterns, all guided by a caller. The room was filled with energy and excitement as students moved to the rhythm, experiencing firsthand how patterns come alive through dance. It was a joyful and memorable highlight of our day!
To wrap up the day, students continued working on their final projects. Many have completed their compositions and are now building their instruments. I can’t wait to see and hear their final presentations!
Extend Learning at Home
🎵 Ostinato Challenge
Choose a familiar song or chant and create a one-measure ostinato using a rhythm you’ve learned. Try layering multiple ostinatos to build a rich musical texture.
🕺 Square Dancing Fun
Explore beginner square dancing/ Contra videos online! Many websites and YouTube channels offer step-by-step tutorials that students can follow at home.
Wishing you a wonderful evening,
Catherine Hayes