Steps for Learning - Activity Two: Music Performances Then & Now

1. As a class, watch the Wunderkind Little Amadeus episode entitled “Mixed Up Violins.” Tell the students to focus on how and where music is performed in the episode, and how the audience behaved during the musical performances.

 

After the students are finished watching, give each student a copy of the Comprehension Checker. Review students’ answers to ensure that they understand what occurred in the story.

 

2. Lead a class discussion on the differences in the ways music was performed during Mozart’s lifetime, and the ways music is performed today. Review each item on the class list from Activity One, and ask the students how the audience performs during each location. As students discuss the list, discuss the varying kinds of appropriate behavior and the reasons for this behavior. For example, you can compare why people are often loud and lively during a rock concert or a gospel performance in a church, yet are quiet during a classical performance. 

 

Tell the students that during some premieres of Mozart’s operas the people screamed and laughed, booed and fizzled, applauded and kept still and that people were very emotional during the performances. Ask the students why they think people do not respond the same way today when they hear classical music. Remind the students to refer to their surveys as they participate in the discussion.

 

3. Divide the class into small groups, and give each group a copy of the “Mozart Tableau” handout. Review the handout with your students and clarify any questions they might have.