Keeping a Steady Beat - Lesson 1

Music is counted in beats. Put your hand over your heart. Count four beats. Notice how your heart beat is steady and even.

Tap on the hearts below at an average tempo (speed). Now try it again at a quicker tempo and then a slower tempo. Be sure to keep the beat steady.

Show your child how to keep a steady beat by clapping or using a simple instrument. I like to use a pair of rhythm sticks. I prefer to have one plain and one fluted, because you can do more with them as you progress in learning about music. See the link below to buy from Amazon. You can also simply use two wooden spoons. I also find it easier to have a set of rhythm sticks or spoons for myself. This allows you to play along with your child. Besides making the lesson more entertaining, it often helps your child to know exactly what they are supposed to do and can eliminate some anxiety about playing music by himself.

My favorite composer is Franz Joseph Haydn. His Symphony No. 101 in D Major, also known as "The Clock", is a wonderful piece to practice keeping a steady beat.

This is a cello. It is part of the string family of instruments. The cello in this movement of the symphony sounds like the "tick-tock" of a clock. Keep a steady beat with the cello.

You can find "The Clock" here on YouTube.