Years ago I made up this set of Performance Signs that I frequently use during group classes with my students. (I’m a little embarrassed about the quality of the design now, but I’ve been using them for years and my students are very attached to them!)
There are six signs, with the following titles: Approach to Piano, Arrival at the Piano, Performance, Completion, Bow, and Return to Seat. On the back of each card is a list of things to remember in conjunction with that portion of the performance. I printed each of these signs on a sheet of colored paper and laminated it. Once I introduce the performance principles to students (or review them prior to a performance), I distribute the cards randomly. Each student takes a turn performing, and once they are back at their seat, the students with the cards hold them up if they followed the steps listed on that particular card. If the performer doesn’t get a raised card in a particular area, the “judge” of that area explains what they should have done differently to get that card raised.
You can download your own set of these Performance Signs for free and print them out for use in your studio. The combination of the visual representation and the constant use these get in my studio has entrenched these performance principles on my students’ minds. That’s not to say that they always remember them in the “heat of the moment,” but we’re getting there!
What a great idea – goofy artwork and all! However, it seems your link may not be working. Thanks.
Thanks for catching that, Carla! It should be fixed now.
What a great idea! In my ensembles’ final rehearsal, we practice lining up, walking up the cafeteria, walking up the steps, quietly sitting, taking a bow, and walking off stage. However, I’ve never done signs like this. Do you mind if I modify this into a one-page handout for each student?
Not at all, Steve. Go for it! Will you e-mail me a copy of the handout you put together, though?
Hello! This is my first year teaching piano, and I’m really enjoying it! Thank you so much for the signs! I printed them out and am looking forward to trying them out with my students.
Thanks again,
Heidi
Thanks! I love this and have needed a new idea on this subject. In the past I have drawn off a baseball diamond with “announcing your piece” as getting to 1st base, “hands in lap before play” – 2nd base, (perform) then “hands back in lap” – 3rd base, and “bow” for homerun. The students in the audience help me keep track of each performer’s possible 4 pts. which I keep track of for prizes at the end of the group lesson. Yours is much more specific and I like that! Also here’s another idea to share for rewards. To print out play money (“Bach bucks”) for prizes you can go to http://www.festisite.com/money and “click and drag” famous composer’s pictures into the middle of the bill. I have also just recently framed an oversized “Bach buck” and replaced the composer’s picture with one of my students’ picture as a reward for highest score on a computer game. They loved the honor of this special recognition. Thanks for all you share Natalie. You’re such a blessing!
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