As much as we work on breathing with our students, with various approaches, techniques, and exercises, one problem remains: how much air are they actually moving? Though I’ve used several gimmicks to assess this, I think the single best way – and easiest with a large group – is to use balloons. Have each student hold a balloon, and then blow it up as if “playing” a whole note as you count aloud. At the end of that “note,” they are to clamp the end of the balloon they are holding with their fingers to keep the air in the balloon. You, and they, will be able to see the actual amount of air they have moved. This visualization is amazing, vivid, and powerful. It is truly remarkable. However, as I am sure you have already figured out, it has two problems. One, the inevitable laughter that will ensue as the students make those sounds releasing the air out of the balloons! And two, the worry of a balloon breaking and hurting a student. For that worry, borrow safety glasses or goggles from the science teachers in your building, and make sure to use only really high-quality balloons. (Stop laughing; there actually are varying qualities of balloons; I’ve checked!) It is worth every bit of effort to finally know how well our students are exhaling.
Peter Loel Boonshaft, Director of Education
KHS America
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We look forward to the evolution of this exciting program, and welcome feedback on how we can further enhance the work that you do in music education.
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