Hang On to the Big Balloon Book

Orff instruments have enormous appeal for students of all ages. This creative book includes pieces simple enough for first graders and
challenging enough for middle school students to enjoy.

In this collection of mostly Orff instrumentals, Konnie Saliba takes students from very simple songs in which they play only a few notes to challenging selections that require some reading skills. Each of the six chapters has a specific purpose: Chapter one features unpitched percussion; chapter 2 has six selections where students only play 2 - five notes; chapter 3 focuses on Orff keyboard technique; chapter 4 presents melodies with stepwise motions; chapter 5 is all instrumental canons; chapter 6 features performance pieces in elemental style and includes seven instrumental tunes written in the style of countries or regions. The creative teaching suggestions often allow the tunes to first be taught with words or melodic motives. Most selections ask for student input in deciding which instruments play the melody and what forms to develop. Hang on to the Big Balloon and have fun with Orff instruments!