January's Game of the Month

Regular readers will know I post a different free music game at the beginning of each month. January's is called Mind the Gap and centres on the difference between pulse and rhythm, two concepts that are often confused. This game ably distinguishes between the two in a way no theoretical explanation can manage alone.

I also put out a monthly newsletter, Playing With Sound, containing other ideas and activities. January's will go out in a day or two and includes a handy warm-up game called Follow That! with applications for language, drama and general activities as well as music. Signing up for the newsletter is free and you can unsubscribe at any time with just a click of your mouse. As well as the newsletter each month you will receive, initially, a short series of emails containing teaching ideas. I don't share my subscriber list with anyone else.

Free game for November

If you can tap your foot you should try November's free music game. Inspired in part by Luke Rhinehart's 'The Dice Man' it involves rolling dice to decide what beats to play on.

You really don't need any 'proper' musical instruments for this game. A tin can, comb, hole punch or plastic bag will work just as well. Obviously, if you happen to have a Stradivarius violin to hand don't hide it away: that will sound just fine too.

Anyone can play. And you really don't need a fancy die like the one in the picture. A standard-issue six-sider will work just as well. Or you can make yourself a spinner with a matchstick and a piece of cardboard.

I post a new game every month, in addition to the ten on the website. If you sign up to the newsletter you need never miss one. The dice game is great fun. Cause a stir by playing it between courses at your local restaurant - there are plenty of things to make sounds with on a dining table.