The Tonette
In the days of (my) “yore”, a Tonette was the popular Elementary school “pre-instrument”. It was odd-colored, and had finger and thumb holes; perfect for
K-3 small hands. Mine looked to me like some sort of blue plastic sea mammal with a fin, that squeaked when played. For myself of course, it was a sure waste of time to pursue “perfection”...
Although there may have been those who continued with the Tonette, the Recorder, with its Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass forms, provide an introduction to Music periods, as well as opportunities for Ensemble
performances.
The Piano Cardboard Keyboard
Having conquered John THOMPSON Piano Book 1, it was even more problematic to be handed a cardboard replica of a piano keyboard. The keys were colored, but
not raised. In the music classroom, there was an actual Upright Piano with and angled mirror above it to demonstrate finger posture and such, as well as hear the sounds of actual piano tones while music scripts were read
and played.
Ahh... I still see in my mind’s eye the always patient Music Class Piano teacher, who wisely knew not to ask me to use the cardboard keyboard.
“What a difference a day makes...” ♫ Today, Class piano comes equipped with earphones, electric keyboards which allows one to feel the action and depth of motion, as well as hear the sounds
produced. The Music teacher roams the classroom with earphones wrapped around his or her neck to hear the students’ progress.
The Ukelele
The Ukelele has been forwarded as an instrument for small hands, and can be used as a pre-introduction to Strings, as it creates dexterity in the left hand.
Conclusion
It is not expected that teaching these instruments will produce “Ankle-biters” that will develop into professional players. The truth is that Music in and of itself is UNIVERSAL
in all languages, and has played a significant role in cultural development -- even when a piece of paper was placed over the tines of a comb to produce memorable musical family moments.
For this, my January 2018 "tierce de Picardie" Award will go out to the ever patient, tireless and sometimes thankless work of the Elementary School Music Educator. May your work continue that someone, somewhere out there will be reminded in the years to
come that today is actually the “yore” of tomorrow.
Image: Elevator on Mauretania from Wikimedia Commons
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