In this workshop, participants will explore some 2-part choral repertoire that supports the development of tuneful, beatful and artfulness at a higher level. Students first attempts at part-singing can sometimes be a frustrating one for teachers and children alike. With careful planning and a pedagogical understanding of the complexities involved, part singing should be a rewarding experience for all involved. Participants will be guided through a sequential sequence for teaching part-singing to young students. A range of canons, partner songs and simple 2 part arrangements will be introduced and participants will gain an understanding of the need for careful repertoire selection and planning to maximise success. Effective rehearsal techniques will also be discussed.

Participants will gain an understanding of how simple part-work experiences in the youngest years lay the foundation for successful part-singing in later years. A selection of 2-part choral works will be analysed to determine their suitability for students at different stages of development. Teachers will learn what to look for when choosing 2-part repertoire for beginning choirs. They will also gain an understanding of what skills need to be firmly in place for students to be ready to sing 2-part choral music and how to develop those skills.

Catriona Turnbull (M.Mus, B.Mus, L.Mus.A) is a classroom teacher (currently P-6) and director of several choirs at Ascham School in Sydney, Australia. Inspired by the work of John Feierabend, she has a keen interest in how children learn to read music and become independent musicians. Catriona combines this interest with exceptional IT skills and a love of visual presentation. She has explored and developed many resources to facilitate the education of children in secondary, primary and infants school. Catriona has a passion for choral music and believes every child should have the opportunity to find their voice and experience the joy of singing in a choir. She is currently serving as the President of the NSW Branch of the Kodály Music Education Institute of Australia.