2 replies to this topic

[mikefack]

We have been given the charge of teaching technology to the 7th grade students. In our district, all students must take a music class (full year, ensemble), so when technology was cut from the 7th grade curriculum, it was decided the music teachers would fill this gap. We were "trained" at an in-service in October on several programs purchased by the district. The programs come from "Electronic Courseware Systems, Inc.". Is anyone familiar with these programs and if so, how have you used them? In addition, what other suggestions do you have? Thanks!

[bandirhdg]

We have to fulfill a technology requiement every year and we use Smart Music. You can see it at smartmusic.com or was it makemusic.com. Anyway, it has 50,000 solo accompaniments, 5-6 method books, on screen assessment, a built-in metronome and tuner, practice reports, glossary, etc. There is SO much there that I can't really even touch what kids can learn about computers and about playing their instrument. The on-screen assessment is more than worth the price of the package. A student plays a line in the book (printed on the screen) into a microphone plugged into the computer. The black notes played correctly turn green and the wrong notes or wrong rhythms turn red. It's truly amazing. Get on their web site and see the demonstration.