Beth's Music Classroom - Beth's Music Classroom

How to Make Melodic Contour Instantly Click for Your Students

As elementary music teachers, we know how important it is for students to develop a strong foundation in music theory. One of the fundamental concepts is reading melodies and understanding how it moves up and down through steps, skips, leaps, and repeats. While it can...

Black History Month Songs and Activities Your Students Will Love

February is Black History Month, and it's a great time to highlight the rich contributions of African-American musicians and composers. Music is a great way to help students connect with culture, history, and how people use music to express themselves and stand up for...

How to Make Virtual Music Classes Exciting This Winter

Teaching virtual music classes on a snow day doesn’t have to feel like herding cats through a blizzard—it can actually be fun and exciting with the right strategies. In this post, I’ll share specific activities and practical tips to help you create virtual lessons...

Transform Your Music Lessons with These Fun Movement Props

Looking to add more movement and excitement to your music lessons? Movement props are a game-changer! They’re an easy way to engage students, reinforce musical concepts, and encourage creativity. In this post, I’m highlighting three of my favorite props—scarves,...

Bring Books to Life! How to Use Sound Stories in PreK to 1st Grade Music Lessons

As elementary music teachers, we’re always looking for creative ways to engage our youngest students in meaningful music-making. A wonderful way to do this is through sound stories. This simple, yet effective, strategy not only keeps students entertained but also...

The Magic of Peter and the Wolf: Creative Activities for Elementary Music

Peter and the Wolf by Sergei Prokofiev is a timeless classic that introduces students to orchestral instruments and musical storytelling. Each of the characters, represented by a different instrument, give options for creating exciting and engaging lessons for...

Exciting Music Bean Bag Activities for Your Classroom

In the world of elementary music, finding simple yet effective tools to engage students is key. One versatile, budget-friendly tool I love using in my classroom is the bean bag! These tactile objects may seem basic, but they offer a wide range of benefits for rhythm,...

Focus with Fun: Attention Getters for the Music Classroom

As an elementary music teacher, you know that managing a room full of excited, energetic students can feel a bit overwhelming at times. And while energy is a wonderful thing in the music classroom, getting the students’ attention quickly and effectively can save you...

Rhythm Is Life: Engaging Rhythm Practice Activities to Unlock Mastery

Welcome! If you’re new around here, I’m so glad you’re joining me today. Also, if you haven’t read parts 1 or 2 of this teaching rhythm series, I would suggest starting with those first. In the first post (click here to read), I discuss the benefits of teaching rhythm...

Rhythm Is Life: Preparation Strategies that will Transform Your Kindergarten Rhythm Lessons

Preparation Strategies that will Transform Your Lessons Welcome and thanks for being here! If you haven’t read part 1 of this rhythm series, you can find it here. It’s all about the benefits of teaching rhythm and the 3 P’s of the Kodaly method. Today, we’re jumping...