Teaching With Musicplay

One of the first questions I’m often asked as an elementary music teacher is: “Do you still teach recorders?”  My answer is always an enthusiastic yes! I’ve loved teaching recorder from the very beginning of my teaching career—the excitement on that first day when students hold their very own instrument had me hooked.

Of course, I’ll admit those first few classes can be a little rough on the ears. But with some targeted tips and clear guidance, my students quickly find their way. For me, the benefits far outweigh the initial squeaks, and I love watching the incredible growth that happens over three years of recorder study from Grades 4–6.

I know the recorder doesn’t always have the best reputation with parents—or the public, for that matter. That’s why this week, I’m sharing my personal reasons for teaching recorder, along with some great MusicplayOnline resources you can use to strengthen your recorder program and show why this little instrument really matters.

Recorder Section on MusicplayOnline

This week, I’m excited to share a couple of fun activities from the Back to School unit on MusicplayOnline— one brand-new icebreaker and one old favorite. Both are perfect for creating a welcoming, positive atmosphere in your classroom and give students a low-pressure (and musical!) way to kick off the year.

Back to School Unit

Back-to-school season is here—even if we’re not quite ready to say goodbye to summer! MusicplayOnline’s Back to School unit is a great place to start, filled with activities designed to make those first weeks fun and welcoming. This week, we’re highlighting resources that help you get to know your students and build community in your music classroom.

Name games are a fun and effective way for specialist teachers to learn—and remember—student names. This week, we’re sharing options for both primary and upper elementary students. We’re also highlighting a printable booklet from the All About Me activities in the Back to School unit, a simple way to learn your students’ interests and musical preferences—insights that can guide lesson planning and boost engagement all year.

Keeping the Music Flowing Smoothly

Whether you’re just getting ready or already back in the classroom, now is the perfect time to set up routines for success! Establishing key systems early will help your year run smoothly. Today, I’m excited to share teaching tips for smooth—and musical!—transitions in the music classroom. From line-up songs and circle chants to other fun activities, these ideas will keep the music flowing as you move between different parts of your lesson.