Written work alternative for band and orchestra

We all have times when we have to cancel a band practice or orchestra rehearsal! If you need alternative written work for your band or orchestra, this is a research and analysis task which is ready to print and go, and can even be left with a non-specialist teacher! It is no-prep, and requires no instruments or technology! It is designed to be used when a usual rehearsal cannot happen. It really is a worthwhile and enriching task as well as being a simple, no-prep lesson for emergencies, subs, cover and more!

What’s Included?
4 pages
50 questions
8 sections

What do I need?
Your students need a copy of their own part from the piece you are playing.

Tell me more!

The task is a 4-page printable worksheet (PDF) which pupils answer on blank paper (or laptop/computer). All 4 pages are greyscale for cheaper copying.

Your band/orchestra members will study their sheet music for a piece they are playing, and answer a series of questions designed to deepen their knowledge of the piece, understand its background, and improve their playing of their part. Students work alone, at their own pace, and independently of the teacher. These worksheets will take most students two lessons (assuming 50-60 minute lessons) but could be repeated for other pieces if you need it to last longer. An extension task is even included for fast finishers.

The 50+ questions are split into 8 headings such as “First Glance”, “Rhythm and Tempo” and “Ensemble playing”. You can customise the task by asking pupils to complete only certain sections, or use it as homework with one section to complete every week. Questions range from simple, one-word answers (such as naming the composer, key signature etc) to longer and more involved activities (such as notating a rhythm they find difficult and creating a word or phrase to match the rhythm).

We all have situations where we have to cancel a band practice or orchestra rehearsal and I am sure you your students to complete meaningful, enriching work which will actually improve their playing! Teacher absence, usual rehearsal space being unavailable, quiet rehearsals during exams, or a pupil who has opted out or cannot attend a practice but is still required to complete some work.

Anything else?

I have a set of 8 cover worksheets which are flexible and ideal for band, orchestra, choir, general music, music appreciation and more! Many educators like you have purchased these items together. Like this task, they require no prep, no instruments and no specialist teacher. Check them out here!

I also have a similar set of worksheets for choirs.