Music Experiences
Singing GamesSinging games are complex music and movement experiences that contain their own forms of motivation. And when it's over, kids usually insist, "Let's do it again."
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Songs That TeachA great way to remember information is to put it to a tune. This is the most common form of music integration for a good reason: it works for memory AND engagement!
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Grooves
A groove is a musical background created by overlapping rhythms. Grooves can be used to accompany songs, poetry, lists, movement, or academic drills like skip-counting.
KaraokeChoral reading is a proven way to develop reading fluency. Use Karaoke as a rewarding and community-building means to choral reading.
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Repeat a SongThe "trick" to teaching a song is to sing it as many times as possible, giving children something interesting to do each time. This keeps everyone engaged exploring musical concepts.
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Songwriting
Songwriting is one of the oldest and most enduring arts practices. Distinct from composition, it does not require a knowledge of staff notation. Children can either create new lyrics to a familiar tune or make up their own tunes.
Play Instruments
Much can be learned through the processes of playing and creating musical instruments. This page outlines how to use instruments in the classroom.
Listening MapsSounds can be treated the same as any other text.
Lyric AnalysisUse song lyrics as any other text.
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NotationIt is not essential to learn how to read staff notation in order to be musical or have musical experiences. However, if you feel that you would like to teach children to "read music," here are some Accessible strategies.
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Music Research
Musicology is the study of music history, musicians, and musical cultures, traditions, genres, and practices. It involves listening to, reading about, and writing about music as well as attending or otherwise watching musical events. Children can find it rewarding to engage with music in these ways.