Sigma Alpha Iota

Philanthropies Awar 2 0 2 3 S I G M A A L P H A I O T A Fall 2023 40 KENNEDY CENTER INTERNSHIP LYDIA C. FALCON S i g m a P h i , L o u i s i a n a S t a t e U n i v e r s i t y, O m e g a A , R e g i o n I V MUSIC BUSINESS/ TECHNOLOGY SCHOL ARSHIP IN MEMORY OF DOROTHY COOKE WHINERY ASHLEY MELENDEZ R e n o A l u m n a e, D e l t a B, R e g i o n I ANNUAL AWARDS In June of last year, I had the opportunity to complete Level 1 of my Kodály training. The curriculum is based on singing, listening, reading, writing, ear training, composition, and improvisation. The method includes tonic solfege, Curwen hand signs, stick notation, and rhythm syllables (such as ta and ti-ti). In Level 1, we focused on the first two years of elementary education: Kindergarten and 1st grade. The main concepts taught are basic rhythms, including quarter notes, quarter rests, and eighth notes, and so-mi-la solfege. Other concepts taught include melody, meter, question and answer, rhythmic ostinati, and repeat signs. During our pedagogy class, we analyzed songs that included these concepts and discussed how we would implement them in the classroom. Part of the Level 1 Kodály training also includes solfege training, with a focus on the pentatonic scale. The professor challenged us in different ways, such as singing a measure ahead of our hand signs, or singing and hand signing in a round with ourselves. All Kodály participants also formed a choir where we learned pieces that could be used with our elementary students. If it weren't for receiving the Sigma Alpha Iota Professional Development/ Education Grant, I would not have been able to attend this Level 1 training. I am so grateful for this wonderful organization that supports its sisters in furthering their education! GABRIELLE KEITH Louisville Alumnae

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