In the realm of music education, there’s much more to learn than just mastering the notes on the page. Beyond technique and theory lies a deeper understanding of musical etiquette – the unspoken rules that govern the relationship between performers and their audience. Recently, in a Suzuki-style violin group lesson, I embarked on a creative journey to impart these invaluable lessons through a fun and interactive game.

Setting the Stage: As the curtains rose on our lesson, the theme of the day was clear: recital etiquette. We delved into discussions about what constitutes good behavior for both performers and audience members alike. From the graceful art of bowing to the timely applause at appropriate moments, every detail was examined with care.

Navigating Distractions: But in the unpredictable world of live performances, distractions often lurk in the shadows, ready to derail even the most polished presentation. From the rustle of papers to the cry of a restless toddler, we brainstormed a comprehensive list of potential interruptions. More importantly, we learned how to tune out these distractions and stay focused on our performance.

Enter the Performance Game: With the stage set and the lessons learned, it was time to put theory into practice. I introduced a unique performance game designed to reinforce the principles of recital etiquette in a playful manner. As each student took the spotlight to perform a piece, I distributed cards among their peers – some containing common distractions like sneezing or a cell phone ringing, while others remained blank, awaiting words of encouragement.

Spreading Positivity: As the performances unfolded, so did the magic of encouragement. Before they put pen to paper, we took a moment to brainstorm specific compliments, aiming to move beyond generic praise. From the graceful postures of a proper bow hold to the nuanced dynamics that breathed life into a piece, we celebrated the details of what a fantastic performance could be. I wrote their ideas on a whiteboard in the room for them to reference as needed during their peer’s performances. Armed with a repertoire of thoughtful observations, students embarked on a mission to uplift their peers with targeted feedback, fostering a culture of appreciation and growth within the group. Students eagerly scribbled uplifting comments on their blank cards, ready to offer support to their fellow musicians. This simple act of kindness not only boosted the confidence of the performers but also cultivated a deeper understanding of musical craftsmanship among all participants as well as fostered a sense of camaraderie within the group.

Bringing the Game Home: Now, as I reflect on the success of our lesson, I’m excited to share this innovative game with fellow music educators. With a digital download of printable cards and detailed instructions, teachers can effortlessly incorporate this activity into their own group lessons, fostering a culture of respect and encouragement among their students. You can find this group game in the Silly String Games Etsy Page HERE.

In the world of music, mastering the technical aspects of performance is only part of the journey. By instilling the principles of recital etiquette early on, we empower our students to become not just skilled musicians, but gracious performers and attentive audience members. As we continue to spread the joy of music, let us remember that the true beauty lies not just in the notes themselves, but in the harmony we create together.