If you’ve ever wondered how to go about teaching rhythmic ear training, this is an easy and fun introduction. We start off with recognizing the rhythms first. Once we have done plenty of rhythm measure clapping, we move onto clap back and rhythm bingo.
Rhythm clap back is very easy to introduce into your private lessons and group classes. I start with basic note values in 4/4/ time. Usually by now, my students have had tons of rhythm clapping experience and clapping back is a breeze. Once they can accurately clap back a basic rhythm measure, it is time for BINGO!
Students love to play bingo, and this game gives them a hands on opportunity to use their clap back skills in addition to visual confirmation of what they are hearing. Simply hand your student (s) a rhythm bingo card and a handful of bingo chips. Clap the rhythm measures twice, and give them plenty of time to figure out if they have that rhythm measure on their card. In a group class setting, I will usually do a quick visual scan of the cards for a common rhythm measure and save that one for last so they can all finish at the same time 🙂
Whether in private lessons or group classes, Rhythm Bingo is tons of fun at any level. This beginner version uses very basic note values in 4/4 time with only 6 measures to a card, so they are large enough for students as young as preschoolers. More versions will follow using more complex note values and various time signatures. If you would like updates on these and other products, subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on our Facebook page, or join our Facebook Discussion Group.
