Musical Detective: Why? When? How?

Engaged and curious students listen beyond the obvious. That magic happens by asking “why?” “when?” and “how?”  Model that inquisitive attitude from the podium!  A well-placed strategic question provides a puzzle to be solved.  Try, “I wonder…” questions to balance critical engagement with plenty of playing time.

“Why did the composer add the woodwinds here?”

“Who has your rhythm next?”

“What’s more important here; the call, or the response?”

“Upbows give a slight crescendo, so should this note be an upbow or a downbow? Why?”

Tip: Students can be shy, so let them discuss with a stand partner first.  “Warming up” the question emboldens the quiet ones to answer aloud, and sometimes their ideas are the best!

By composer and educator Ruth Brittin

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