Making Music in the Elementary School

Perfect for preservice teachers and veteran teachers alike, this text offers practical strategies, real-life scenarios, and sample repertoire for crafting engaging, student-centered lessons in preK–6 general music. Structured into three sections – Who We Teach and Why; How We Teach; and What We Teach, this comprehensive resource covers all essential topics, including:

• An overview of elementary general music
• Building relationships with students and managing behaviors
• Teaching with an inclusive lens
• How to plan lessons and assess students based on national, state, and district standards
• An overview of the major approaches to music education, including Kodaly, Orff, Feierabend, Gordon, Dalcroze, and others
• How to sequence musical skills in the areas of singing, playing instruments, movement, musicianship, and reading notation

Short interludes between chapters address other important aspects of the profession, such as finding your teacher voice, incorporating music from other cultures, imposter syndrome, and planning for concerts. In addition, the worksheets, assignments, reflection questions, and repertoire found throughout the book are available as free downloadable documents. Rooted in real classroom experience and infused with heart and practicality, this resource offers a clear pathway to becoming the music teacher all students deserve.