MENC Forums

It's a bit early for me to have an opinion.  I've watched some video clips of the game and find it... intriguing.  I'd like to know more.

I think it could be a useful tool for younger elementary grades.  You can talk about the different kinds of instruments (example: world instruments such as the sitar and historical instruments such as the harpsichord). 

The improv. (they call it 'jam') section is great to just let them hear what each instrument sounds like. 

There is a basic introduction to different styles in the "lesson" section.  You can make a song from 5-6 layered parts (from percussion to melodic parts) and learn basic patterns in different styles (jazz, classical, reggae, rock, etc).

For older elem, there is a ear training game to put pitches in order from high to low.  They have you build major and minor chords as well.

There is also a conducting game, though it would be tough with elem.  You can lead an orchestra by waving the remote (not a set pattern - just up and down).  You can control loudness, accents, and tempo this way.

Drawbacks?  Not really the "real thing" - they have songs that you can play (such as twinkle twinkle little star) but since there are only 4 keys on the remote, you could keep pressing one key over and over and still play the melody.  However, I think anything that introduces instruments/styles is good for students.  Would I use it daily?...nope.  As a reward/reinforcement for certain concepts?  Possibly.  The only reason I haven't?  I don't want my Wii to be damaged!

My school is doing a Guitar Hero competition as a fundraiser, at an after-school event.  I'm hoping it will be lucrative (interest seems high) and, even though it's not very musically valid, it's still a little more musically valid than cookie dough sales!  Wouldn't think of doing it in a class setting.

Scimma and ebelanger - Did you use your personal equipment for your Guitar Hero tournament? Are you elementary, middle or high school? Was it in conjunction with anything else, like a fall festival? It seems like a very cool idea for a fundraiser!! Thanks!!

Dr. James Frankel, 15+ years as a music educator and now the SoundTree managing director, just blogged about Wii music. He gives great insight into the program and a sweet video of his girls playing with the product.

http://jamesfrankel.musiced.net/2008/11/12/wii-music/