How To Integrate Music into the Classroom: Innovative Approaches and Tools
Music is a universal language and can be a powerful teaching tool. Its ability to enhance learning experiences and foster creativity creates an innovative approach to the classroom. There are many ways to incorporate music into the classroom.
Let’s talk about it.
1. Showcase Music Through Video
Being able to play video through TVs and displays is a seamless way to engage students. You can play live performances or teach music lessons through platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and other educational apps. This convenient teaching method allows for kids to continue learning at home as well.
2. Educational Music Apps and Websites
There are many music education apps and websites that already exist. They teach music theory, history, and even the composition of music. Some examples include Quaver Music, Classics for Kids, and Noteflight.
However, there are many to choose from both with paid and free services. Trying an online music school has proven to be a very successful teaching method, especially after the pandemic.
3. Music Composition Software
Music isn’t just playing instruments in the classroom. Technology has allowed for the composition of song and sound through computers and apps. Just consider GarageBand for Mac and Apple users. This promotes ultimate creativity and a base for learning how different sounds work together.
4. Virtual Field Trips
Speaking of technology. Virtual field trips allow for access like nothing before. Some schools don’t have the affordability to take their kids to a live concert or museum. Virtual tours now allow for all kids to experience it. Google Arts and Culture is one platform that promotes these.
5. Invite Speakers and Performers
Having local musicians or composers come in to speak to a class is a great change-up from the teacher speaking. Even having them perform can be a great experience. This allows for the field trip to come to the students and see it firsthand. Nothing is more inspirational than the musician right in front of you.
6. Integrate Multiple Subjects
Music can be connected to other subjects, such as social studies and world culture. The historical context of music through different time periods is incredibly important to music theory. There is also a science component to creating music worth exploring.
7. Simply Playing Music
Simple background music during less intensive tasks can help students focus. They may enjoy some relaxing background sound while they work on math or even an independent study. This is often why cades play music. It creates a productive environment.
8. Musical Songwriting
Songwriting is an essential piece of music. It takes a lot of creativity. Instead of journaling, allow the class to write a song. You can pick a particular genre to inspire them or let them do it free of restrictions.
9. Dancing and Gym
Music and dancing go hand in hand. This is why music during gym class is a great way to incorporate some fun. However, learning music can be a hands-on experience by working on rhythmic exercises and movements.
10. Group Projects
Bonding over music is a worldwide phenomenon. Just consider Taylor Swift as an example. Doing group projects, no matter what the music subject is, is a great idea. This provides a shared sense of accomplishment and provokes thought-sharing and discussion.
Start Anywhere
Teaching music and adding it to the classroom should focus on an enjoyable and fun experience for the children. This is because you want to have the association be positive. Music can connect the class together and connect the teacher with the students.
This can be done in so many ways, as outlined above, whether you want to incorporate it more physically or take a simplified approach. Simply turning on the monitor to showcase live performances is also a great option. Getting creative with it, just like you would with music, is the idea.