A Note on Mixolydian
If you are not accustomed to singing in Mixolydian, pay attention to the C natural.Activity:
Have students come up to play a xylophone with you 1 and at time or in small groups. After the song is familiar, as students what food they would like to be in the song instead of “meat.” My kids always mention McDonalds!
I use bass bars but use the largest Orff instrument you have, removing everything except the notes you want to use. You will need a tonic (I) and dominant (V) in whatever key you have available. D and A are nice because it sits within a child’s singing range.
Adjustment:
If your students have a hard time playing both notes at the same time, have them hold one mallet in both hands and play a single note. After a few attempts, move back to separate hands.
Choice:
Give students the opportunity to replace the food the crows are looking for. Instead of “meat” maybe they will eat donuts!