The National Standards in Music provide a framework for what should be taught in music classrooms across the country. You may notice that your state benchmarks closely mirror many of the concepts outlined in the National Music Standards. The National Music Standards serve as a starting point, but then each
Trying to figure out a music curriculum for elementary music is a challenge. What should you teach your students? When should you teach it? How should you teach it? You might just throw in the towel and purchase a pre-made music curriculum. But even then, how do you know which
As the school year comes to a close, you might be looking for some fun and engaging end of the year activities to keep your students motivated and excited about music class. Here are a few ideas for music activities to end the school year on a high note: End
Music centers are a great way to give your students hands-on experience with a variety of musical concepts. Not only do they allow for a more interactive and engaging learning experience, but they also give students the opportunity to explore and discover on their own. Here are a few tips
There are so many famous composers out there. It can be hard to know which composers to teach and even harder to teach them in a way that interests your students. This post will highlight several famous composers from different eras and genres and give you some fun suggestions on
Hey, music teachers – let’s talk about lesson plans for elementary music. Lesson plans are something we all have to do. But for many it can be a struggle. If your music lesson plans are contributing to anxiety in your life, then you have come to the right place! This
Are you a music teacher (or other teacher) looking for a lesson plan template that can help to streamline your lesson planning and save you time? Teachers have enough on their plates. Spending time writing out detailed lesson plans is just not on the menu. And yet many of us
A String of Pearls by Glenn Miller is such a great classic example of big band jazz. If you are planning a unit on jazz, or just want a jazz activity for kids to try out during Jazz Appreciation Month, these activities to String of Pearls by Glenn Miller is
If you are getting ready to introduce note reading in music, this blog post is for you. Whether you are using note reading games, flashcards or any number of other activities, the way that you structure your lesson can make a big difference on how quickly your students are successful
The instruments of the orchestra. We all teach about them at some point in elementary music class. But what is the BEST way to teach about the instruments of the orchestra? Usually we show some pictures of instruments and talk about which instrument family each instrument is in. But what
I am an elementary music teacher, blogger and mom on a mission to make teaching and lesson planning easier for you. When I’m not working, you can find me at home enjoying life with my husband, daughter and two cats.
