Want to transform a Nutcracker March Listening Map into an entire lesson on The Nutcracker Ballet? No problem! In this post I will show you how you can build a lesson around your listening map, while incorporating movement, musical vocabulary and so much more.
This Nutcracker Listening Map Set contains listening maps for The March from The Nutcracker, Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, and other iconic songs from The Nutcracker Ballet.
The March from The Nutcracker – Our Starting Point
I highly suggest exposing students to classical work through listening maps. Often the first time I play a piece for students, we will watch and listen with a listening map. So to begin this lesson on The Nutcracker, I would play The March from The Nutcracker while displaying the Nutcracker March Listening Map and following along as a class.
How do I use The Nutcracker March Listening Map in my Lessons?
Teaching vocabulary with a listening map
Every classical piece is rich with vocabulary that can be pulled out and taught, and The March from The Nutcracker is no exception. Some of the main vocabulary that comes to mind with this piece includes dynamic and rondo form. Instrument timbres are always good to point out as well.
Dynamics
You could discuss how the A section comes back at different dynamics throughout the song. Which section had the loudest dynamic? You could create a movement to the A section and then do it with smaller or bigger gestures depending on the dynamic.
Instrument Timbres
You could have different colored scarves for distinct timbres in the song, such as brass and strings, and have students stand and move when their group has the melody. Everyone could move when it is a full orchestra timbre.
Moving to the Form
Speaking of movement, one of my favorite things to do with a piece after we have viewed the listening map is to move to the form of the piece. Rondos are particularly fun with the repeated A section and variety of sections in between. You could create your own body percussion patterns for each section or use simple folk dance moves. There are so many options for you as the teacher to create movement activities, or for you to allow your class/student groups to create their own! You could even have BOTH! It’s so much fun whenever you can allow your STUDENTS to do the creating!
Unit on the ballet
I usually include my Nutcracker lessons as part of a larger unit on ballet. In my previous district, the second grade would go on a field trip to see The Nutracker Ballet each year, so I would teach about ballet in general, and then we would focus in on The Nutcracker and the story and the music.
What Are Some Specific Activities for the March from the Nutcracker?
Kidstix Nutcracker March Rhythm Play Along
If you know me, you know I am a big fan of Artie Almeida. Heavy academics delivered joyfully. I mean, what a perfect catch phrase. Who DOESN’T strive for that in their classroom everyday?
So it should be no surprise to you that one of my Nutcracker activities would be an Artie Almeida KidStix routine to The March from The Nutcracker.
Movement Activity for The Nutcracker March
Here is a sample movement series you could do with The March from The Nutcracker:
A section
B section
C section
Spin
Another Movement Activity to The March from The Nutcracker
Here is another route you could go. I found this video of a fun movement activity for The Nutcracker March using two groups (boys and girls in this case I think) to move during different sections of the piece. If I were to do this activity, I would probably label the two groups (maybe toy soldiers and mice) and have cue cards. When their “team’s” card is held up they move. This might help eliminate some confusion.
Musical Form Video to The March from The Nutcracker
One more excellent resource for The Nutcracker March is this fun musical form video by the amazing and talented Sydney Johnson at Ready Go Music. Check out this post for ideas on how to use it in your Nutcracker lesson, or create your own idea!
Want More Nutcracker Resources?
If you are planning on featuring multiple songs from the Nutcracker Ballet, then you may want to check out my Nutcracker Ballet Bundle! It contains not only listening maps, but also coloring sheets to go with 8 of the most famous songs and even a biography pack with activities and worksheets about composer Peter Tchaikovsky.
More Useful Articles Related to The Nutcracker
Holiday Listening and Movement Activities
Nutcracker Ballet: 7 Awesome Ideas To Add To Your Nutcracker Lesson Plan
Listening Maps for Music: The Ultimate How To Guide to Listening Maps in Music Class
Now you’ve got a variety of resources to use in your next Nutcracker music lesson. I can’t wait to hear about all the amazing lessons that you create with these resources and ideas! And don’t forget to grab this Nutcracker Listening Map Set to add to your next Nutcracker music lesson for quick and easy listening to some of The Nutcracker’s most iconic songs.
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