› Singing Games for Singing Leaders and Music Teachers

Studies have shown that games serve several purposes - Games break the ice, energize, reinforce and review learning, build confidence, lift morale, spark enthusiasm, and ultimately, let everyone have some fun. When considering whether to use a game in music, ask yourself if it will provide one the following: social interaction; energize the group; reinforce learning? Beginning with a game that encourages social interaction can create common bonds between participants and make them more comfortable. Using a game during the session can refocus and rejuvenate participants. This allows reinforcement of what has been learned so far.

Game songs/music that I (Kass Mulvany) have successfully used to re-energize my singing/music sessions include Epo i taï taï é with body percussion. Go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=One5Fu9n1lQ&feature=youtu.be for a video version of games with this song. If your group is large enough, you can do the advanced double-circle dance version of this game.

Another excellent challenge is the Maori stick game with the song E papa wai-a-ri. Go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=142cFuz7vMo for one easy version of this song. Sets of Dowel sticks can be used as rhythm sticks and participants work in pairs. Perhaps you could give an award of decorated rhythm sticks to the best pairs?!

The Button Song/Game is a fun circle game, where someone ("IT") must discover WHO has the button. Counting during singing becomes important in the success of IT's choice!  Button, you must wander, wander, wander, Button, you must wander – everywhere. Bright eyes will find you, Sharp eyes will find you. Button, you must wander – everywhere. An excellent version (using xylophone accompaniment - you could use tuned percussion or handbells!) is at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jn4bS-riT7Y.

Endunda si guala (g)uasi pembe is a Spanish song, found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ee6rXH1sNyc. Stick with the game until the 3 minute mark to see how you introduce shakers in to the game - HUGE FUN! "Endunda si guala guasi pembe, Endunda si guala guasi pe, Endunda si guala guasi pembe Eh! Endunda si guala guasi pe!" Don't forget to reverse the direction to give the "lefties" a fair go!

When participants have clear instructions, they can increase their skill levels with simple games. Simple, relevant games enhance traditional learning methods, create a comfortable environment and keep participants focussed, allowing us to HAVE FUN! RELAX! DO IT!

For more fun ideas, watch the CMVic space!