This level 2 piece uses written designations for bass notes and harmonics. Students will play a few notes in high positions without needing to read them. Drill these notes by asking for individuals to demonstrate. You may ask “Where is string 5, fret 3 on the guitar?” Or, “Please play the note in measure 4.”
Ask students to perform dynamics with exaggerated contrasts. Ask small groups to perform while others listen, evaluating togetherness, dynamics, etc. Ask for specific feedback from listeners, for example- “Which voice seemed louder?” or “Which section could play louder?”
Students often find it easier to produce clear harmonics by playing with the right hand closer to the bridge. Some students also stop the resonance by keeping their finger on the string. Show them that they can gently move off of the string after the harmonic is struck. Practice harmonics separately, paying careful attention to the timing of the attack.
Title activity: Ask students about the title and the imagery it brings up. Request that interested students make visual art related to the piece. Make an “album cover” that would appear with a recording (like the ones that go with mp3s on phones)
The audio recording for this selection was performed by members of the Austin Classical Guitar Youth Orchestra Iris Rentaria, James Snyder, and Aidan Suskic, engineered by ACGYO member and ACG intern Lennox Kolics, and recorded at Chez Boom Audio in Austin, Texas, which generously donated studio space, equipment, and expert guidance.