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Passionate About Music Education

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Looking for music resources for secondary music classes that have been tried and tested in the classroom? With 25+ years of experience teaching in secondary schools in the UK and internationally, I am deeply passionate about music and drama education.

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Looking for music resources for secondary music classes that have been tried and tested in the classroom? With 25+ years of experience teaching in secondary schools in the UK and internationally, I am deeply passionate about music and drama education.
Fun music project - exploring the C Major Scale
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Fun music project - exploring the C Major Scale

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Fun music project - exploring the C Major Scale This was created for music lessons being taught outside of the music room with limited access to instruments! The activities include an introduction to the C major scale (there is an opportunity to bring listening work into this), identifying the C major scale on a keyboard and stave notation. Writing 3 simple C major scale pieces using a given rhythm and a practical homework task (which could be a class lesson) on learning to play Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star in the key of C major. Students could input their composition onto music software or play on virtual instruments if you have no access to classroom instruments. The practical task is also set up so students can use real instruments at home or in the classroom, sing the song, or use virtual instruments. This unit links with Year 2, topic 1 (Scales) of the Middle School Music curriculum that is for sale on this TES page. For more music lesson resources make sure you follow Passionate About Music Education TES page!
Fun music theory activity based on the lullaby - Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star
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Fun music theory activity based on the lullaby - Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star

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Fun music theory activity based on the lullaby - Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star Are you looking for a fun way to introduce or develop music theory whilst working remotely or away from your classroom? This fun worksheet encourages basic understanding of music theory, note naming and how to apply it to a piano / tuned percussion or their own instrument. Students can then use the music theory sheet to play or sing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star on an instrument of their choice either in class or at home. Don’t forget to follow Passionate About Music Education for all the latest updates!
Music Pop History - Celebrating Black Female Artists
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Music Pop History - Celebrating Black Female Artists

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This is an introduction activity that celebrates Black Female Artists in Pop History. Students pick two artists of their choice to complete some research about their lives and careers. Students then pick a song by each artist. They are to analyse and compare the two songs and look for what both songs have in common. This is an ideal lesson for remote learning, cover work or teaching in a non-specialist music room. It links with the Middle School Curriculum topic 3, unit 1 (pop history) which is available to purchase on Passionate About Music Education TES page. Don’t forget to follow to get notification of new resources being published.
Form and Structure - Binary form meditation music project
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Form and Structure - Binary form meditation music project

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Exploring form and structure is a great unit for introducing students to composing and creating their own music. In this unit students will explore binary form and meditation music. It’s a great way to encourage students to see how music can help with mindset and well-being whilst introducing binary form concepts. This is perfect for inspiring students in middle and high school. The powerpoint walks the students through meditation music and the composing task. It has links to listening materials and music terms. There is a support work sheet that students can use whilst creating and composing. Students can work in groups or individually on this task. I have taught this lesson using a variety of keyboards, classroom percussion, students’ own instruments and music software programmes. This can easily be adapted to virtual / hybrid learning. Links with Year 2 topic 2 from the Middle School music curriculum that is for sale. Why not follow Passionate About Music Education youtube channel for advice on teaching music and stress management support for teachers.
Fun music theory based on the nursery rhyme - This Old Man.
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Fun music theory based on the nursery rhyme - This Old Man.

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Fun music theory activity based on the nursery rhyme - This Old Man. Are you looking for a fun way to introduce or develop music theory whilst working remotely or away from your classroom? This fun worksheet encourages basic understanding of music theory, note naming and how to apply it to a piano / tuned percussion or their own instrument. Students can then use the music theory sheet to play or sing This Old Man on an instrument of their choice either in class or at home. Don’t forget to follow Passionate About Music Education for all the latest updates!
Fun music composing task - exploring the A Minor Scale
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Fun music composing task - exploring the A Minor Scale

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Fun music composing task - exploring the A Minor Scale This was created for music lessons being taught outside of the music room with limited access to instruments! The activities include an introduction to the A Minor Scale (there is an opportunity to bring listening work into this), identifying the A Minor Scale on a keyboard and stave notation. Writing 3 simple A Minor Scale scale pieces using a given rhythm. Students could input their composition onto music software or play on virtual instruments if you have no access to classroom instruments. The practical task is also set up so students can use real instruments at home or in the classroom, sing the song, or use virtual instruments. This unit links with Year 2, topic 1 (Scales) of the Middle School Music curriculum that is for sale on this TES page. For more music lesson resources make sure you follow Passionate About Music Education TES page!
Music Concert Planning and logistic Check list for music teachers
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Music Concert Planning and logistic Check list for music teachers

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Concert Planning / logistic Checklist - excel spreadsheet This is the perfect checklist for all busy music teachers who needs assistance with planning the logistics of a concert and want to ensure that nothing is missed. The editable spreadsheet includes ideas of some of the tasks you will need to complete in the lead up to the concert, the day of the concert and afterwards. It allows you to assign who is responsible for completing each task so that you can take some of the stress off your plate. Don’t forget to follow this TES page and why not check out passionate about music education channel on Youtube.
Pop, Jazz and Blues Music history - introduction to Black Male Artists KS3
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Pop, Jazz and Blues Music history - introduction to Black Male Artists KS3

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This is an introduction activity that celebrates Black Male artists from Pop, Jazz and Blues music history. It is perfect for KS3 music classes. Students pick two artists of their choice to complete some research about their lives and careers. Students then pick a song by each artist. They are to analyze and compare the two songs and look for what both songs have in common. This is an ideal lesson for remote learning, cover work or teaching in a non-specialist music room. It links with the Middle School Curriculum topic 3, unit 1 (pop history) which is available to purchase on Passionate About Music Education TES page. Don’t forget to follow to get notification of new resources being published.
KS2 and KS3 Fun Music theory worksheet Old MacDonald
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KS2 and KS3 Fun Music theory worksheet Old MacDonald

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KS2 and KS3 Fun Music theory worksheet Old MacDonald Fun music theory activity based on the nursery rhyme - Old MacDonald Had a Farm. Are you looking for a fun way to introduce or develop music theory? Need something for cover? This fun worksheet encourages basic understanding of music theory, note naming and how to apply it to a piano / tuned percussion or their own instrument. Students can then use the music theory sheet to play or sing Old MacDonald on an instrument of their choice either in class or at home. Don’t forget to follow Passionate About Music Education for all the latest updates and resources!
Classical music worksheet KS3 - comparing two pieces by Mozart
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Classical music worksheet KS3 - comparing two pieces by Mozart

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**Classical music worksheet KS3 - comparing two pieces by Mozart ** This is a great introduction lesson to the Classical composer Mozart. It’s a chance for students to learn to compare two contrasting pieces (these are easily accessible on music streaming sites - Rondo alla Turca and Marriage of Figaro Overture). This single lesson activity will work perfectly for class lessons, homework or a substitute / cover lesson. The worksheet starts with some basic historical facts about Mozart and simple comprehension questions. Then there is a comparison question where students listen to Rondo alla Turca and Marriage of Figaro Overture. These pieces are easily found on music streaming sites. Students will describe the musical features of both pieces and then look for similarities. This is a great opportunity to develop understanding of musical elements and lead into to class discussion work about the music that they are listening to. This worksheet links with the secondary / middle school music curriculum that is available to purchase on Passionate About Music Education page.
Creating a Band Music Project for KS3 and KS4  music classes
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Creating a Band Music Project for KS3 and KS4 music classes

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This project will work perfectly for KS3 & KS4 music classes or as a cover work project. The idea is that students listen to different genres of ‘popular’ music, select their genre and complete a series of tasks. Students can work independently, in pairs or small groups on this task. It can be completed using a variety of different technology - depending on what you have available in your school. You can also swap, omit or add slides to meet the needs of your students and the equipment available in your classroom. The powerpoint has 24 slides. Included are the tasks, a listening exercise with YouTube links, example band logos, example album covers and example merchandise. The task is to be a band manager and students are to create the following: A band name, logo and names of band members To decide on what style or genre of popular music will be performed What instruments the band will play Create an album of 8 songs (covers or originals) and decide which one is going to be released as the first single Design merchandise for selling on tour. T-Shirts, posters, cups, calendars, etc. There are two practical extension tasks in the advice for teachers slide. The project should last between 3 - 5 lessons depending on how many tasks you include. It links perfectly with the middle school / KS3 music curriculum Year 3 Term 1 module that is for sale on this page.
Baroque to 20th Century music listening and mini-projects KS3 & KS4
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Baroque to 20th Century music listening and mini-projects KS3 & KS4

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Baroque, Classical, Romantic and 20th Century classical music listening and project worksheets. This is perfect for KS3 / middle & KS4 / high school music classes. Each worksheet explores a different period of classical music and will make a great one-off lesson, homework task, cover lesson or could even be expanded into a longer class project. Each worksheet has an opportunity for students to complete initial individual research of the specific genre of music. There is a listening exercise that expands upon the historical / context already learnt by the students. Each worksheet finishes with the opportunity for independent project work where students can pick a task from the list and use it as a final assessment piece that can be assessed by the teacher. Students will have the flexibility in how they present the work for assessment making this a great student-led project.
Quick Music Technology project for KS3 and KS4 music classes
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Quick Music Technology project for KS3 and KS4 music classes

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Quick Music Technology project for KS3 and KS4 music classes This is one worksheet that comes from a series of 10. The bundle can be purchased separately on the shop page. Each worksheet explores a different genre and styles of music and will make a great one-off lesson, homework task, cover work or could even be expanded into a longer class project. Each worksheet has an opportunity for students to complete initial individual research of the specific genre of music. There is a listening exercise that expands upon the historical and musical context already learnt by the students. Each worksheet finishes with the opportunity for independent project work where students can pick a task from the list and use it as a final assessment piece that can be assessed by the teacher. Students will have the flexibility in how they present the work for assessment making this a great student-led project. This task is linked to Year 3 module 1 of the middle school curriculum (Pop Music).
Quick Film Music project for KS3 or KS4 music students
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Quick Film Music project for KS3 or KS4 music students

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Quick Film Music project for KS3 or KS4 music students This is one worksheet that comes from a series of 10. The bundle can be purchased separately on the shop page. Each worksheet explores a different genre and styles of music and will make a great one-off lesson, homework task, cover work or could even be expanded into a longer class project. Each worksheet has an opportunity for students to complete initial individual research of the specific genre of music. There is a listening exercise that expands upon the historical and musical context already learnt by the students. Each worksheet finishes with the opportunity for independent project work where students can pick a task from the list and use it as a final assessment piece that can be assessed by the teacher. Students will have the flexibility in how they present the work for assessment making this a great student-led project.
Popular music worksheet - comparing two pieces by Louis Armstrong
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Popular music worksheet - comparing two pieces by Louis Armstrong

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Popular music worksheet - comparing two pieces by Louis Armstrong This is a great introduction lesson to the jazz musician Louis Armstrong. It’s a chance for students to learn to compare two contrasting pieces (these are easily accessible on music streaming sites - Heebie Jeebies and Hello Dolly). This single lesson activity will work perfectly for class lessons, homework or a substitute / cover lesson. The worksheet starts with some basic historical facts about Armstrong and simple comprehension questions. Then there is a comparison question where students listen to Heebie Jeebies and Hello Dolly. These pieces are easily found on music streaming sites. Students will describe the musical features of both pieces and then look for similarities. This is a great opportunity to develop understanding of musical elements and lead into to class discussion work about the music that they are listening to. This worksheet links with the KS3 / Middle School Music Curriculum that is available to purchase on Passionate About Music Education page.
Book 1 - 10 Rhythm Reading exercises for KS3 and KS4 music classrooms
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Book 1 - 10 Rhythm Reading exercises for KS3 and KS4 music classrooms

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Book 1 - Rhythm Reading exercises for KS3 and KS4 music classrooms - Teacher Guide After finding myself in a number of different classroom setting this year, I wanted to create a resource that could be applied in the choral, general music, band and orchestra rooms. It comes as no surprise to us that students struggle with rhythm as a majority of our students focus most of their attention on pitch. Each of the 10 worksheets comes with a new rhythmic challenge. Worksheet 1 - 4/4 time signature. Basic beat values and rests - minims, crotchets and quavers Worksheet 2 - 4/4 time signature. Dotted rhythms Worksheet 3 - 3/4 time signature. Dotted rhythms Worksheet 4 - 2/4 time signature. Triplets and semiquavers Worksheet 5 - 6/8 time signature. Dotted rhythms and semiquavers Worksheet 6 - 9/8 time signature. Quaver rests Worksheet 7 - 4/4 time signature. Triplets, semiquavers, quaver rests Worksheet 8 - 5/4 time signature. Irregular time signature Worksheet 9 - 4/4 time signature. Triplets, semiquavers and rests Worksheet 10 - 4/4 time signature. More complex rhythm patterns and ties. For each worksheet there are 12 lines. Each 1 bar rhythm pattern is written for 3 bars with a bar for resting and breathing.This gives students a chance to look ahead at the next line. By playing the same pattern for 3 bars it allows students a chance to master that rhythm pattern before going onto a new pattern. It’s perfect for beginner students to focus on rhythm accuracy, separate from reading pitch. I have used this method for many years as a warm up exercise for my ensembles and general music classes. The booklet also comes with teachers suggestions of uses and how to vary the tasks in the classroom setting. The tasks can be used as warm up activities, a starting point for composing, homework exercises and rhythm reading assessments. There will be play-along recordings of each worksheet on my Youtube channel - Music Theory Made Simple that can be used in the classroom.
Quick Gospel Music project for KS3 or KS4 music students
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Quick Gospel Music project for KS3 or KS4 music students

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Quick Gospel Music project for KS3 or KS4 music students This is one worksheet that comes from a series of 10. The bundle can be purchased separately on the shop page. Each worksheet explores a different genre and styles of music and will make a great one-off lesson, homework task, cover work or could even be expanded into a longer class project. Each worksheet has an opportunity for students to complete initial individual research of the specific genre of music. There is a listening exercise that expands upon the historical and musical context already learnt by the students. Each worksheet finishes with the opportunity for independent project work where students can pick a task from the list and use it as a final assessment piece that can be assessed by the teacher. Students will have the flexibility in how they present the work for assessment making this a great student-led project.
Musical Genres and Styles Mini-projects book 1 & 2 for KS3 & KS4 music
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Musical Genres and Styles Mini-projects book 1 & 2 for KS3 & KS4 music

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Musical Genres and Styles Mini-projects Book 1 & 2 This series of worksheets was originally created for KS3 & KS4 music classes during online teaching. The series have been popular with music teachers as it offers a set of projects that work for music classes, extended projects and cover work for non-specialist teachers. The worksheets are designed to focus on listening, musical appreciation and improve understanding of different historical and musical contexts. These worksheets work for any teacher who is teaching students who have no or limited access to instruments at school or home. However, the projects do give freedom to supplement the tasks with practical work of your choice where and when possible. Each worksheet explores different genres and styles of music and will make a great one-off lesson, homework task or could even be expanded into a longer class project. The idea is to share a musical appreciation and life-long love of music with students, even if practical work is limited. Each worksheet has an opportunity for students to complete initial individual research of the specific genre of music. There is a listening exercise that expands upon the historical and musical context already learned by the students. Each worksheet finishes with the opportunity for independent project work where students can pick a task from the list and use it as a final assessment piece that can be assessed by the teacher. Students will have the flexibility in how they present the work for assessment making this a great student-led project. I hope your students enjoy these tasks!
Worksheet 2 - Rhythm Reading exercises for secondary  music classrooms
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Worksheet 2 - Rhythm Reading exercises for secondary music classrooms

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Worksheet 2 - Rhythm Reading exercises for secondary music classrooms. This is a single worksheet focusing on developing rhythm reading and can be used in any classroom or ensemble setting. Worksheet 2 - 4/4 time signature focusing on dotted rhythms. Each worksheet has 12 patterns. Each 1 bar rhythm pattern is written for 3 bars with a bar for resting and breathing. This gives students a chance to look ahead at the next line. By playing the same pattern for 3 bars it allows students a chance to master that rhythm pattern before going onto a new pattern. It’s perfect for beginner students to focus on rhythm accuracy, separate from reading pitch. I have used this method for many years as a warm up exercise for my ensembles and general music classes. The task can be used as warm up activities, a starting point for composing, homework exercises and rhythm reading assessments. There is a complete series of 10 that is also available on my store. There are play-along recordings of each worksheet on my Youtube channel - Music Theory Made Simple that can be used in the classroom.