Wii+Music


 * CITATION AND GENERAL INFORMATION**

• Title: [|Wii Music] • Publisher: [|Nintendo] • Copyright Date: 2008 • Platform: For use with Wii console (Nintendo) • Peripherals: Wii controllers, Wii nunchucks, Balance board can be added for drum set, additional "instruments" can be purchased • Grade/Age: Early Elementary through Adult • Type of Class: General Music


 * TEACHER SUPPORT**

Teacher support materials are not included. However, Nintendo is in a partnership with MENC to integrate Wii Music into schools in 51 cities nationwide


 * INSTRUCTIONAL CONTENT**

• Specific Musical Content: Wii Music is a software program designed to be used with a Wii video game system. Students are given an opportunity to explore music and instruments in an engaging and entertaining venue. In the Practice Session, students may simulate playing orchestral, rock, jazz, and world instruments in a variety of musical styles. The Jam Session offers the opportunity to add other musicians to the performance, after which a music video and an album cover can be created from the performance. "Bebops" are animated notes that serve as a metronome during Practice Sessions and Jam Sessions. Students may follow given (albeit limited) notation or may improvise a melody line. Students may also choose to play games which include Pitch Perfect (aural skills), Handbell Harmony (an opportunity to play hand bells) and Mii Maestro (conducting an orchestra.) • National Music Standard that could be addressed through this software: Improvising melodies, variations, and accompaniments (ns3)


 * INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN AND PEDAGOGICAL SOUNDNESS**

While Wii Music was not originally marketed as educational software, many musical concepts are introduced and reinforced. The program is easy to navigate, but non-readers may be frustrated by the amount of text on the screen. The given text is at a managable level for mid to upper elementary students, and the graphics are colorful and engaging. Students have control of movement throughout the program, and can unlock levels and additional songs as they gain mastery of the material. While the simulation of performance on the musical instruments is not realistic, students can keep a steady beat, control tempo, and control pitch changes on most instruments. There is a limitation of the number of students who can play simultaneously (maximum of four per game console.)

• Sequence of Materials: Good • Pace of Instruction: Good • Quality of Interaction: Excellent • Motivation for Students: Good


 * RECORD KEEPING**

Jam Sessions can be sent via Wi-Fi to other players who have Wii Music software and Wi-Fi connection. Additional songs are "unlocked" as students gain mastery in the Games area.


 * OVERALL EVALUATION**

Wii Music can be an excellent resource for teachers who may use it as a "reward" or as a resource for students working in stations. It is an entertaining game that encourages creative expression and instrument exploration.

• Rating ***

Julie Green (6/16/2010)