Hot Cross Buns

We have added a new pitch to Music Street in 3rd grade--Re.  We decoded the pitches and rhythms of the folk song "Hot Cross Buns."  The only three pitches used in "Hot Cross Buns" are Mi, Re, and Do.  First, we practiced singing our new pitch with our solfege hand signs.  Then, we decoded the pitches of the song, "Hot Cross Buns."  Next, we figured out the rhythm patterns of the song.  After that, we added back in the words to the song and headed to the instruments.  We set up our instruments in G Pentatonic (means "five tones") and I set the students free to figure out how to play the song on their instruments.  And, they did it!  Using their aural skills, each student tested out their instrument.  We collaborated as a group to fine tune the patterns.  Finally, we added in the solfege and the words.  In the video below, you'll see our final result!  And remember, all this took place in our 40 minutes class period--these 3rd graders are amazing! :) 

JUST FOR FUN: 

The song name "Hot Cross Buns" usually elicits some giggles from students.  Our American brains don't immediately make the connection to the tasty baked good this song is about.  This is a folk song from England about a bun eaten on Good Friday. It is a spiced sweet bun filled with currants or raisins, and there is an icing cross place on top.    In previous years, I've spotted hot cross buns for sale at Panera Bread around Easter time! 

Hot Cross Buns ready to eat!