The High-low game is a great way to develop listening skills and help students to learn about pitch.
The teacher and students take turns to select one of 8 different 3-note phrases using the notes C, E and G. See the handout on our google drive.
They do not tell the others which phrase they are going to play. They just play the 3 notes as written, preferably with the correct rhythm. They should also play from a position where the others cannot see them, otherwise they might guess just by watching which valves are pressed, or how the trombone slide is moved!
The others then have to guess which of the 8 phrases they have played. Rather than shout out, the students should put their hands up so the teacher can pick one to give an answer.
Check with the player if the answer is correct. If not, ask another student to give an answer.
Once the correct answer has been given, get all the students to play the same phrase. The teacher should lead this.
Next, the student who gave the correct answer takes a turn or, another volunteer has a go.
Note that the student playing the phrase may need help and encouragement to play the phrase correctly. If they don’t get it right after a couple of tries, no matter. By giving everybody a go at playing it together, they get another chance.
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