This summer, I started using a new rhythm activity with students: Wendy Steven’s Rhythm Cup Explorations. I purchased
and downloaded both the pdf and accompaniment tracks for Book 1. The pdf is reproducible, which is useful if you have a large group of students and need extra copies of the pages.
I have gotten a good laugh by handing students a cup without telling them what we are going to do. The faces they make are priceless! They have had a lot of fun this summer with the activity and I’ve heard more laughs in lessons than ever before.
Rhythm Cup Explorations is an excellent way for students to learn and practice rhythm kinesthetically. Book 1 is organized into different units and each page within the unit advances just a little. Units include quarter and half notes, eighth notes, triplets, and sixteenths. It’s very easy to use with students of all levels. Students tap the cup in various ways, flip it, and even tap their forehead!
I use the activity within the last 5-10 minutes of a private lesson and sometimes I pull siblings together. It would be even more fun to do the activity as a group. I can’t wait to try using the Holiday Rhythm Cup Explorations in a few months!
Lauren teaches piano to students of all ages. She enjoys creating resources for her students and teachers. She is the author of Ready for Theory®. For personalized help, check out the consultations page for teachers.
