Conducting is something we often find in ensemble settings such as choirs, orchestras, bands and the like. It’s a way to communicate pulse, tempo and expressive intent through gesture. However,...
3 rhythm-based instrumental activities for your rehearsals
Read on for ideas for how to use these rhythm-based activities in lessons, rehearsals or practical classes on instruments. These activities are adapted from singing-based versions available via the...
Why Kodály-inspired teaching is vital for sequential music learning
When teaching sequential music learning, long term strategic planning is essential. The first step is deciding what should be included in your curriculum, then, determining the sequence in which...
Analysis Series: Character, Mood & Word Lists
As a language, music can speak to us on many levels. For example, emotionally, a piece of music may make us feel uplifted and joyous, and physically, this same piece of music may leave us feeling...
Ways to gamify beat in your music classroom.
Beat is defined as a regular movement or sound. In music, the beat is a regular, repeated pulse that helps create tempo or speed in music. Really knowing beat can make all the difference for rhythm...
3 First Nations activities for your music classroom
Read on for ideas for how to use First Nations songs along with links to some great activities, available via the Music Teachers’ Digital Library (note, some are free, but others are only...
Top 10 Videos for Time Signatures
One of the exciting things about music learning in general—but Kodály-inspired approaches in particular—is how integrated all of the concepts are. In order to really know rhythm, or stand a...
Top 10 music literacy tips to set up your school year!
Look, let’s be honest, returning to school for a new year feels a little bit like coming out of a deep festive-season-holiday hibernation. The thought of showing up on day one and having your...
3 Ways to Use Flashcards in Your Music Classroom
Flashcards have to be one of the most useful resources a teacher can have in their classroom! Use them to save you having to write on the board or let the kids use them to recognise – and match...
Top 10 Videos for Scales & Key Signatures
The aim of the game here at DSMusic is sequential music literacy and really knowing. This means step-by-step teaching and learning of music aural and music theory concepts, followed by the practicing...
4 FREE compositional device resources for music performance analysis
Dive into the four compositional devices in the VCE Music Study Design - with tips and listening examples....
Step-by-step tips for getting better at rhythmic dictation.
A question I often get asked by students – especially in the lead up to exams! – is how to do dictations. Here at DSMusic, we’re big on really knowing these concepts, whether...
