This summer I made a new music game with dice for my group classes called Shake & Tap. So far, I’ve used the 
game in two different ways:
- I gather the students around the page and have one student roll the dice. The student shakes up the dice in his hands before he rolls it. Then the student taps the corresponding rhythm for the number rolled.
- I put one dice for each student in a cup and then let one student shake up the cup and roll the dice out. The students quickly grab the dice that is closest to them. Then they each tap the corresponding rhythm.
This is a quick little game with few rules. If I have a younger student in the class who doesn’t know the rhythm or is shy, the group taps it together. The students absolutely love rolling dice!
I’ve used Shake & Tap in private lessons as well. I take turns tapping the rhythm with the student. Students enjoy seeing which number we’ll each roll.
Download a free sample of Shake & Tap Simple Meter Level 1
Download the full version of Shake & Tap, Simple Meter Level 1
Lauren teaches piano to students of all ages in New Orleans, LA. Teaching is her passion. She enjoys creating resources for her students and is the author of Ready for Theory®.
What a fun idea! Before noticing the printable I thought you were referring to tapping the corresponding measure in their music. That could be a fun aaplication as well to familiarize students with the rhythms directly in their piece with a game.
That’s a great idea, Heidi! I might try to come up with an example of that for a future post. Or if you do it with a student, feel free to send a picture, and I’ll post it.
I love this Lauren! Just downloaded it and putting it in my rotation for the new school year. Would love to see some with groups of 4 eighth notes like in Piano Safari Level 1. Thanks!
Hey Michelle! Check pages 2 and 3 of Shake & Tap 2. There are a few with the groups of 4 eighth notes.
I love this! Brilliant idea. Thanks for sharing!
Hope you enjoy!
Thank you, what a fun game!