Instrumental Activity Book - Start the Train

"Start the Train" is an engaging instrumental activity that transforms a simple circle of children into a musical locomotive adventure. Each child is equipped with a unique instrument, adding to the variety of sounds and rhythms that will fill the room. The game is led by a designated leader who sets the pace by playing a 4-beat rhythm pattern three times. This is followed by a distinct "Ta Ta Ta" sound, signaling for all the children to join in and mimic the rhythm pattern, creating a harmonious train-like motion. As the rhythmical journey continues, the leader will suddenly play a loud "Ta Ta Ta" to indicate "Stop the train", prompting everyone to halt their playing.

The game then introduces an element of change with the leader producing a "Ta-a Ta Ta" rhythm, which is the cue for "Change Stations". Upon this signal, all participants pass their instruments to the right, ensuring that each child gets to experience a different musical role. The activity continues with a new leader taking the helm, ideally someone with a loud, dual-toned instrument to effectively communicate the start and stop instructions. Although the accompanying DVD shows the children playing their rhythm patterns three times before stopping, the ideal scenario is for the game to carry on until the leader's distinct and louder timbre commands the group to stop, maintaining the excitement and unpredictability of the musical train ride.