New Book, Greek Myths in Modes, Just Released!

Danai D. Apostolidou-Gagné and Judith Thomas-Solomon have just finished a beautiful new book of music, drama, and song using the Greek myths as the aesthetic generator. The myths provide a rich background and inspiration for improvisation and composition encouraged by these two fine teacher/authors. They've used the ancient Greek modes (Ionian, Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian and Aeolian) to create sound, sight, and movement explorations portraying the classic Greek stories.

Greek Myths in Modes  (Book/CD ROM)  will be released on March 1, 2013. The book includes all the materials needed to make the ancient Greek myths come alive. The book contains master scores, scripts, images, and extensive lesson plan suggestions. The CD ROM contains images, instrument parts, full color visuals and student/actor script. High quality audio files of the songs and instrumental pieces are included as well.

This collection is offered as a way to enter the mythical, magical world of Greek kings and heroes. Because these ageless stories provide opportunities for invention and collaboration, they also invite dramatization, and this powerful amalgam makes for memorable learning experiences. The Greek myths in this book have been adapted for use through music, movement, speech play, and modes in an open-ended, elemental style for grades 4-5-6.

Inviting preparatory activities give the teacher ideas for developments of dialogue, meter, and mode. Medieval modes have been implemented to bring a tonal flavor appropriate to each myth. Every story has its own ethos, just as the modes have their intrinsic individuality. Although very little is known about the affect the modes in ancient Greece had on its people, or even the specific scale tones, it is known that the structure of the medieval modes were an adaptation of the Greek modes. The authors were drawn to them for their unique qualities and found it easy to assign them to human characteristics which has been done in this collection.

Each story uses a mode and has extensive teaching suggestions and helps. Full scripts are provided.

Modes are rarely taught in upper elementary music classes, and so this project provides a vibrant, wholly accessible entrance into Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian, and Pentatonic scales. In our electronic age, the need for human interaction in classroom situations is volcanic. These dramas, which promote inter-personal communication and are “catch-nets” for creativity of both students and teachers, fulfill that need.

The dramas are modeled in the spirit Carl Orff intended where elemental music is ever hanging and open to student input and creativity. Teachers and students can enter the magical garden of Greek mythology with mind and heart open. The will be invited to consort with the Gods and Kings, Monsters and Heroes, dance with the Nymphs and Dryads, and join Orpheus and Apollo in their divine songs, living with them through the Arts.

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Brent Holl - beatinpath@mac.com