Recorder Karate and First Black Belt Awards in Year 3

One of the most important music skills that children learn in the Performing Arts programme at BSB Sanlitun is the ability to read music. A familiarity with musical notation is an invaluable tool in developing more global understanding of hearing and playing music. 

As children become more acquainted with the notes on the stave as well as the value of different notes and rests, it becomes more vital that they have a practical outlet with which to apply their knowledge. This way they are starting to realise that the reason they are learning to read the ‘dots on the lines and spaces’ is that it is part of being a ‘musician’. This year Year 3 pupils have been working hard to learn how to play the recorder. For many of them it is their first experience with a wind or even any instrument and they are enjoying the extra challenge it provides for them.  

As a way of making their recorder practice motivational and fun, children are currently taking part in a ‘recorder karate’ programme, in which they are given different coloured belts as a reward for playing pieces of music successfully. Through this method, lessons can be differentiated according to the attainment level of each child. Children can take ownership of their own progress and set themselves individual targets. They absolutely love receiving their belts and they can see the real value of hard work. 

Belts range from white belt all the way up to black belt. It’s just like real karate and it’s fun!

By Iva Borisavljevic

Head of Performing Arts