What is one of the first things that you learn when you pick up a stringed instrument? Name the notes on the strings! Our printable makes it easy for you to quiz your student (or yourself!) on those string names! The lines pointing to the stings are color coded so that the string names that...
“Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth!” ~Pharrell Williams Happy I found the book Happy the preschool music kit that I recently ordered from my local library, and it gets a double thumbs up from my family! The words are simply the lyrics to the popular song Happy by Pharrell Williams, so that...
What is a Spirit Stick? Spirit Sticks are fun awards that Lewis Music Studio students can earn by completing tasks related to their instrument! The awards are shaped like a small “stick,” and they attach to a binder clip or key ring. Students keep them on their music bag or on their instrument case! The...
Many of the students at Lewis Music Studio are five years old or under. This is great because they have so much potential for an entire childhood of music. I have noticed, however, that many children under five get confused between their right and left hands. They may be able to name them (and we...
This is a fun activity that we do to learn musical expression, and appreciation for classical music. The song is Hens and Roosters from Carnival of the Animals by Saint-Saens. It’s abrupt sounds imitate chickens running, pecking, jumping, and flying. I encourage the children to make our chickens move on the parachute while they listen...
Music is everywhere, and picture books are no exception. Some portray a popular children’s song while others tell a story about music, but all are sure to please! Hush, Little Baby: A Folk Song with Pictures– For the very youngest listeners, Hush Little Baby is perfect. As the little one grows older, they will enjoy...
I’m the mom who gives my friend’s kids drum sets. Literally- I’m not exaggerating. As a musician, I know that experience in music and creative movement in childhood can foster musical involvement and skills later in childhood and even into adulthood. Read this article for more details about the many benefits of music for children. Creating an environment...
A very important part of learning to read piano music is learning to identify “finger numbers.” In addition, it greatly helps to know left hand from right hand. This simple game addresses both. To play, simply draw two large hands on a piece of cardboard. Be sure to draw them with the thumbs pointing towards...
An important part of learning to read music is number recognition. Young children can learn to play by ear, but it’s great to teach them to read music as well. I focus on the numbers 1-5 since each hand has 5 fingers. This activity is interactive and fun while it teaches, and it incorporates recycling...
