Consider Classical Music

Lyrical, harsh, abrupt, militant, mysterious – classical music encompasses and conveys a broad range of experiences. This month’s collection of images, audio clips and text will introduce you to the world of classical music from the perspective of a listener and a performer, and how it can enhance teaching and learning in your classroom.

Lessons:

Students use the Internet to learn about Antonio Vivaldi, and use Venn diagrams to compare his life to Franz Josef Haydn's.

In this lesson students hear string instruments and learn terms for musical dynamics.

Students are introduced to the conceptual and practical elements of classical ballet as they learn ballet history, vocabulary, and steps.

Students learn about the Russian composer Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky and his visit to the United States.

Students study Antonin Dvorak and his extended stay in America.

Students learn the parts, history, and construction of the cello, and listen and respond to music by Yo-Yo Ma.

Students will make predictions and explore how pitch changes based on the length of the air pipe.

Explore the "dark side" of classical music through famous works by Berlioz and Saint-Saëns.

How-To:

Master Teacher Jayne Karsten shares ideas for using classical music to enhance teaching and learning in your classroom.

Look·Listen·Learn:

This interactive resource uses selections from a National Symphony Orchestra concert to illustrate musical extremes. Analyze the effect of extreme dynamics, tempo, and more through a variety of listening, reading, and movement activities.

This player presents three pieces—Presto from Vivaldi's "Summer," Grofe's "Cloudburst," and Beethoven's "Storm." Get a new view on weather as you listen to these storm-inspired works!

Meet the Artist:

Emil de Cou, on Conducting a Musical Career

The conductor, featured in Xploring Xtremes and Pictures for Your Ears, talks about his path to music and conducting.