Preparing for Music Class

In first grade, students start to learn the basics of note names, beats, and rhythms. A common learning activity would be for the children to clap along with the teacher to recognize when they have a rest or different rhythm. First they learn the basics: eight note, quarter note, quarter rest, half note, and whole note. Then they will move on to learn about dynamics and singing different songs that show these changes. Then they move on to technique, like how to breathe properly when singing. Many teachers introduce opera to children in this area because opera takes a lot of organized breathing a pronouncing words. 


Here is a chart made to show students what to look for and recognize when reading or singing music: