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Nutcracker Unit on MusicplayOnline
The Nutcracker Unit on MusicplayOnline has everything you need to make the story, music, and magic come alive for your students. This week, we’re sharing fun activities that use props, movement, and active participation to help your students experience the joy and energy of this classic holiday ballet.
The Nutcracker Story
Available in Print and on MusicplayOnline
Adapted by Denae Konynenbelt and Illustrated by Irene Stevenson
Delicious treats from around the world began to dance.
Chocolate and tea; cakes and coffee.
When Clara receives a special Christmas gift, strange and wonderful things begin to happen. Join Clara’s journey through snow and candy canes to the Land of Sweets with her Nutcracker prince. Follow the story of the Nutcracker ballet brought to life with Tchaikovsky’s music.
Introduce your students to the enchanting world of The Nutcracker with our beautifully illustrated storybook! Featuring stunning hand-drawn illustrations, this book brings to life the magical story and delightful music that has captivated audiences for generations.
The projectable version enhances the experience by weaving the iconic music throughout the narrative, allowing students to immerse themselves in the magic of the story while engaging with the soundtrack.
Click the image below to view the projectable version:
Nutcracker Unit Movement and Instrument Favorites:
After exploring the book, take the learning further with the Nutcracker Unit on MusicplayOnline, where students can dive deeper into the music and themes of this beloved classic. Enjoy activities that include music listening, movement, props, instruments, and more!
Chinese Dance - Paper Plate Routine
Nutcracker March - Bucket Drums
And find many more activities in the Nutcracker Unit on MusicplayOnline!
Looking for more? Watch the webinar below to discover even more activities for bringing The Nutcracker to life in your music classroom.
Unlocking the Magic of ‘The Nutcracker’: Discover Classroom Resources
Music Centers and Classroom Games: Engaging Students Through Play Webinar
with Stacy Werner
Wednesday, December 10th, 2025 @ 4:30-5:30 MST (60 Minutes)
A recorded version will be available if you are unable to watch live.
About the Webinar:
In this webinar, Stacy will share some of her favorite music center resources! She will showcase centers from her Super Simple Music Centers collection, along with a variety of play-based centers and games that require minimal prep. Stacy will also highlight centers and games included with MusicplayOnline, including the NEW recorder centers. She will provide practical classroom management strategies for running successful music centers and explain why she relies on them during those “crazy weeks” before holidays or the end of the school year. Discover how to make play a meaningful and engaging part of your music instruction.
Musicplay Team Updates:
We wanted to take the opportunity to share some updates from the team:
Content Updates:
- New unit Chansons de noël
Development Updates:
- No updates this week.