Strum, Strike, Sing and Play is an ensemble-based ukulele book. This publication introduces students to the exciting and unique timbre of the ukulele. In recent years, the ukulele has reemerged as a versatile instrument capable of spanning multiple musical genres. This publication is not a typical ukulele teaching method or a technique book; rather it is a compilation of orchestrations featuring the ukulele. The arrangements in this book provide students with the opportunity to practice ukulele skills within the context of a larger ensemble. Teachers with only a limited number of ukuleles will find this publication particularly useful because the lessons feature multiple ways for students to participate in music making. The orchestrations are adjustable to fit the needs each classroom, allowing the teacher to leave out parts or change the instrumentation. Each lesson outlines a suggested teaching process based on the Orff-Schulwerk model. Students learn through the process of imitation, exploration, and improvisation--the foundational elements of the Orff approach. In each lesson, students are encouraged to sing, say, dance, or play. The active approach of this resource will help students develop a thorough understanding of musical concepts. The ensembles in this book are appropriate for day to day teaching as well as performances. The lessons represent a "seed" of an idea with the intention that educators will cultivate the repertoire to fit their environment. We encourage you to adapt, change, or mold each lesson to fit your students' needs. Songs & Lessons: Hill n' Gully Rider Four White Horses Mary Ann Pay Me My Money Down Tingalayo Linstead Market Shake the Papaya Down Bassez Down Scrapin' Up Sand Sweet Guava Jelly Uke Can't Scare Me Create a Musical Loop Digital Files: Included in the purchase of this book are digital files that contain PDF's of song lyrics and enlarged chord charts to aid in student learning. The authors grant permission to those who purchase the book to print and project these visuals in their classroom(s) as needed. An index of the PDF files included is available at the end of this book.
About the Author: Sarah Fairfield serves as a Curriculum Coordinator for the Iowa City Community School District, where she has taught music for more than 17 years. She earned Ph.D. in music education at the University of Iowa, and a Bachelor of Music in vocal performance at the University of California, Irvine. Sarah spent many summers studying the Orff-Schulwerk approach and successfully completed Levels I, II, and III, as well as several Master Classes. She is an active member of the American Orff-Schulwerk Association for whom she served as a member of the National Board of Trustees. Kate Hagen teaches general music in the Iowa City Community Schools District and has over 17 years of experience. She earned her license in Music Therapy from the University of Iowa and Masters of Music Education from the University of Northern Iowa. She has spent many summers studying a variety of music teaching methods, including Kodály and World Music Drumming. She has successfully completed Levels I, II, and III in the Orff-Schulwerk approach. Currently, she is the president-elect of First Iowa Orff.