How to Engage Kids with Classical Music: 3 Simple Ideas
Engaging kids with classical music when it comes to teaching classical music can feel like an uphill battle. But there are so many creative strategies that can turn the tide in ways you may not have considered before. By making classical pieces relatable and interactive, you’ll see those little light bulbs turn on as students develop an appreciation for the timeless music we love.
Using Media to Engage Kids with Classical Music
First up, using media is one of the easiest ways to engage kids with classical music. The truth is, classical pieces are everywhere—movie soundtracks, video games, commercials—you name it! By connecting what they’re listening to in their everyday lives with classical composers like Beethoven or Tchaikovsky, students will begin to recognize and appreciate these works without even realizing it. All of a sudden, they’re humming the themes from The Nutcracker and associating classical music with their favorite games or movies. Check below for links to some Classical Music Rhythm Play-Alongs.
Storytelling: A Creative Approach to Classical Music for Kids
Another fantastic way to bring classical music to life is through storytelling. Ask students to create a story that matches the mood of a piece or imagine a movie scene for which the music could be a soundtrack. This is an easy way to make the abstract nature of classical music feel concrete and personal to them. Plus, it makes for a fun, interactive classroom experience.
Movement: A Physical Way to Engage Kids with Classical Music
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of movement. Getting students to move to the music is an effective way to engage kids with classical music. Whether they’re mimicking the tempo changes with scarves, stepping out rhythms, or creating their own choreography, movement helps them connect with the music physically, making it an active experience instead of just passive listening.
When you engage kids with classical music in these ways, you’ll see their interest—and understanding—skyrocket. They’ll go from feeling disconnected to feeling immersed and excited about exploring classical pieces.
Rhythm Play-Alongs
William Tell Overture Cup Rhythm
William Tell Overture Rhythm Play-Along
Eine Kleine Nacht Musik Percussion Play-Along
Alla Turca (Turkish March) Rhythm Play-Along
D. Shostakovich “March” Rhythm Stick Play-Along
Need some other ideas for using classical music to engage kiddos? Check out this blog post: Classical Music for Kids – 5 Ways to Make it Fun
Like to learn by listening? You can check out the podcast episode instead.
Need a great lesson plan that uses classical music? Here’s a link to a fun activity for littles that teaches fast and slow using the piece, Flight of the Bumblebee. Bonus . . . it’s a storybook lesson!