YELLOW BRICK ROAD MUSIC

I know many of you are probably in concert mode right now. Some of you may even be panicking due to a last-minute performance request from your administration. Sadly, I can’t make your concert season seamless (only loads of rehearsals and coffee can do that). However, I can suggest a closing song that’s super easy to teach and learn, with plenty of opportunities to add instrumental accompaniment. The song is By’m Bye, a folk song originating from Texas.

 

The lesson template below (which you can download for free) is meant to be used as a guide for writing your own lesson plan using By’m Bye. You can use the excess space at the bottom of the guide to sketch out activity ideas or jot down notes on what you’d like to include in your own lesson plan.

 

Idea #1
Use this song as a closer for your concert or informance. Since the song references stars shining, you could turn out the lights in your performance space and have your students hold glow sticks or battery-operated tea lights for added effect.

Idea #2
After students can sing the song, teach them about the octave leaps found in the words “Good Lawd”. Then, have students learn the accompaniment on Orff instruments using an arpeggiated or cross-over bordun, which highlights the octave leaps.

Idea #3
Let students get creative by replacing “stars shining” with their own words for the song. They could work with partners or alone. Then, have them present their creations and have the class sing the new version with them.

Project the free visuals below onto your interactive whiteboard during your lesson. Click the images to download.

I hope you find these ideas and resources helpful! What songs or pieces do you usually perform as closers for concerts or informances? Let me know in the comments!

6 Responses

  1. I love the idea of using this with a crossover bordun, and the lights would be a great addition for a performance as well! Thank you for sharing so many great lesson ideas. I've gotten so much new material from these posts- love it! #fermatafridays

  2. I love the concert idea. It's a simple song and could easily become a favorite. I remember learning this as a child from my mom. Thanks for sharing a variety of ways to use it.

  3. I love your post. I am too in a concert mood preparing for a few orchestra concerts this week.

    Wishes for a great concert and Holiday season,
    Maria