This video introduces a simple system for reading rhythm notation created by Zoltán Kodály. Kodály was a Hungarian composer and music educator known for his contributions to the development of music education in schools. His method for teaching rhythms focuses on using hand signs, rhythmic syllables, and engaging activities to help students internalise rhythmic patterns and develop a strong sense of musicality.

Watch the first 5 mins of the video and join in.

Activity 3 - Rhythm reading level 1 - 10 mins

This is a fun video to test whether the group has understood the Kodaly syllables. The video uses the terms ‘quarter note’ and ‘eighth note’ instead of ‘crotchet’ and ‘quaver’. It also uses the traditional Kodaly sound of ‘ti-ti’ for paired quavers instead of ‘kidi’ used in the first video.

Play the video and join in

This second video removes the syllables from the notation to see if the group can remember how each symbol sounds.

Play the video and join

Activity 4 - Rhythm Composition - 10 mins

On your white boards/paper compose an 8 beat pattern which must use the following rhythm symbols each at least once.

In this example, we have used a grid with 2 rows of 4 beats. This makes it easier to read and play the rhythm back.
Once complete, you can ask for volunteers to clap their rhythm and ask the rest of the group to see if they can write the rhythm down that they heard.

Quick links:

Privacy Notice

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Contact us:

The Music Hub, Chowdene Family Hub, Waverley Road, Gateshead, NE9 7TU

gatesheadmusicservice@gateshead.gov.uk