Call and response is when one person sings or plays something (the call) and another person or group answers back (the response). The response can be an exact echo or something different that fits with the call. This is one of the most ancient forms of making music together.
Sing call-and-response songs where the teacher sings a line and children sing back. Try songs where the response is different from the call, not just an echo. Let children take turns being the caller and create their own calls for the group to answer.
Call-and-response is a musical game where people take turns making sounds. One person (or group) makes a sound or sings a phrase—that is the "call." Then another person (or group) echoes it or answers with their own sound—that is the "response." Back and forth, back and forth. It is like a musical conversation!
The call is the first part. Someone sings a phrase, plays a rhythm, or makes a sound. They are inviting others to participate. The call might be as simple as "Hello!" or a short musical phrase, or a rhythmic clap. The call says "It is your turn now!"
The response is what comes next. The other person or group echoes the same sound, or they answer with something new. If you hear "Hello!" you might say "Hello!" back. If you hear a rhythm clapped out, you might clap the same rhythm back. If someone sings "La la la," you sing "La la la" back. The response is your turn to make a sound!
Call-and-response builds listening and turn-taking skills. You have to listen closely to know when your turn is coming. You have to wait for your turn instead of jumping in. You have to try to match what you heard, or create something that answers the call. These are important skills for music, conversation, and playing together!
Call-and-response happens everywhere! In church, a leader might sing a phrase and everyone sings back. In parades, musicians call back and forth. In playground games, children might chant back and forth. In Africa and the Caribbean, call-and-response is a big part of music and celebration. Try it yourself: call out "One, two, three!" and have a friend call back "Four, five, six!" Or clap a rhythm and have a friend clap it back. Call-and-response is joyful, social, and fun!
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