I’ve been using drum machines in private lessons for a while now to teach note value and rhythm notation to good success. The easy interactivity of a drum machine allows students to quickly explore rhythms and visualize rhythms in a new way. By having students practice translating rhythms between the drum machine and rhythm notation, they solidify the concepts in a memorable way – and because students can take their time to input notes into the drum machine, you can assess if struggling students may be having coordination issues with their instrument, or conceptual issues about rhythm notation.
The best part is that drum machines are available for free, in any web browser, and every student I’ve done this with has enjoyed the exercise much more than just a traditional lesson on note values and notation.
I’ll walk you through the whole process in the video below, and at the bottom of the page you’ll find helpful links to everything I mention.
Links:
drumbit
onemotion drum-machine
hiphopmakers.com drum-machine list
Links:
drumbit
onemotion drum-machine
hiphopmakers.com drum-machine list