1st Grade Black History Month Independent Work Packet

Do you need engaging classical music activities for May and Spring? Celebrate the composers with May birthdays! This bundle includes:

• Johannes Brahms (May 7th)
• Pyotr Tchaikovsky (May 7th)
• Mary Lou Williams (May 8th)
• Claudio Monteverdi (May 15th)

Each Composer Resource Includes:

1-page Resource Guide

Listening Sheet Star Rating Guide

Listening Sheets

Weather and Emotions Listening Sheets

Composer Biography Page - fact sheet (1 or 2 facts are already provided, a box to paste/draw the composer's portrait, and a birthday box to color in and decorate cupcakes!

Composer Research Sheet - students can use their favorite reference materials to compile a full page of facts about the composer's home country.

Composer Rating Activity - there are more options to profile the composer on the rating sheet, including which season and musical style they belong to.

Word Composer Activity - the classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words and record their score.

Johannes Brahms Listening Sheets:

1. Wiegenlied
2. Hungarian Dance No. 5
3. Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 68
4. Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 77
5. Piano Concerto No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 15
6. Cello Sonata No. 1
7. Horn Trio
8. String Quintet No. 2

Pyotr Tchaikovsky Listening Sheets:

1. 1812 Overture
2. Symphony No. 4
3. Piano Concerto No. 1
4. Serenade for Strings
5. Manfred Symphony
6. Symphony No. 3
7. Piano Concerto No. 3
8. String Quartet No. 1

Mary Lou Williams Listening Sheets:

1. Don't Blame Me
2. My Blue Heaven
3. All Blues
4. A Fungus Amungus
5. A Grand Night (sometimes spelled Nite) for Swinging
6. Scorpio
7. Gloria
8. Walkin' and Swingin'

Claudio Monteverdi Listening Sheets:

1. Damigella Tutta Bella
2. L'Arianna
3. Mass for 4 Voices
4. Lasciatemi Morire
5. Ecco Silvio, SV 97
6. E Questa Vita un Lampo
7. Zefiro Torna
8. Sestina

► We know you'll love helping students create meaningful connections to classical music, so we are happy to share these free listening activities with you today!

Get your students excited about coordinates during Black History Month & martin luther king jr Day! These worksheets aim to plot a number of coordinates to find an inspiring message to celebrate some of the most influential African American leaders.

This can help motivate your students to try their best to get the message right by plotting the ordered pairs correctly and accurately.

This resource can be used as an activity, math centers, fast finishers, homework, substitute, "filler days", or end-of-the-year graphing activity! Completed messages will make great bulletin boards for your classroom or hallway.

Figures included:

• Mohamed Ali — "Don't count the days, make the days count."
• Martin Luther King Jr — " The time is always right to do what is right.”
• Malcolm X — "Education is the passport to the future."
• Kareem Abdul-Jabbar — "You can't win if you don't play as a unit."

Directions:

Students will plot letters on a coordinate plane, write each letter above its respective point, and then read the message by following the order of the plotted points from left to right.

A coordinate grid is included with this activity. Only the first quadrant is used therefore it can be used for beginners.

With this resource, you can challenge your class to test their understanding of coordinates to find the hidden message in a fun and meaningful way. So it's a great way of testing their skills.

The activity is No prep and is made to help you teach. It can be downloaded in seconds, all you have to do is print and share them with your class or for homeschooling, it is also great for bulletin board ideas. It's that easy. To make things easier, the answer keys are included.

More from winter coordinates packet:

Math Map skills Grid Winter Graphing Ordered Pairs

Math Winter Activity Graphing Points - Ordered Pairs Coordinate

Winter Math Activities Graphing 5th Grade Math

Winter Math Activities Ordered Pairs Coordinate

Winter Math Activities Coordinate Plane Secret Message

Math Winter Activity - Coordinate Graphing

Or save $1.19 and get the bundle

My best reviewed freebie:

Free Long division Practice Worksheets.

Don't forget that leaving feedback earns you points toward FREE TeachShare purchases.

All the resources I make cost 25¢ for the first 24 hours! so follow my store <3 to stay updated every time I post.

Copyright ©Epsilon Maths Crafts

Permission to copy for single classroom use only.

Please purchase additional licenses if you intend to share this product.

keywords:(not necessarily related to the topic)

digital resources, new years 2024, new year, martin luther king jr, new years, after winter break activity, addition, arctic animals, alphabet, addition and subtraction within 20, quadrilaterals, question of the day, quotation marks, quotation mark practice, qu worksheets, winter, winter activities, writing, winter craft, winter coloring pages, escape room, equivalent fractions, epiphany, emotions, expectations review, reading comprehension, reading comprehension passages and questions, reading, reading log, reading passages, the mitten, text features, theme, telling time, the snowy day, yeti, year of the dragon, y as a vowel, yeti a new year, yes no questions speech therapy, ufli, unit 5, unit rate, unit fractions, ufli assessment, informational writing, nonfiction text features, i have a dream, inferencing, idioms, opinion writing, one word resolution, order of operations, one word, one word new year, place value, penguins, poetry, phonics, calendar, sight words, snowman, snowman craft, shapes, squirrels new years resolution, digital resources, money, division, decodable readers, donut room transformation, fractions, figurative language, foldable style notes, first day back from winter break, fonts, goal setting, grammar, goal setting 2024, guided math year long, growth mindset, writing, writing prompts, happy new year 2024, happy new year, hibernation, january, january morning work, january activities, january bulletin board, january writing prompts, kindergarten morning work, kindness, kindergarten, kindergarten math, kindness activities, lesson plan template, letter recognition, landforms, long division, life skills, zones of regulation, zones of regulation activities, zones of regulation posters, zoo, zones of regulation check in, coloring pages, color by number, money, context clues, calendar, valentines day bulletin board, valentines day, valentines day craft, vision board, vocabulary, back to school after winter break, money, black history month, back to school, bulletin board, new years 2024, new year, new years, new years resolution 2024, new year goals 2024, martin luther king jr, martin luther king jr activities, martin luther king, mlk, morning work, math, math worksheets, math games, math centers, math review

Bring an innovative approach to your music classroom or homeschool with the contemporary works of George Walker! This comprehensive composer pack engages students in listening activities, biography pages, and even a word puzzle!

What's Included

1-page Resource Guide - This guide will get you started quickly! Just print and play.

Listening Sheet Star Rating Guide - A reference sheet illustrates the five-star rating system included in most listening sheets. Each frame has a description, with one being "okay" and 5 stars as "Wow!"

Listening Sheets - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more. There is a space for drawing and several non-musical elements to consider, such as animals and nature.

Weather and Emotions Listening Sheets

Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

2 Biography Pages - Fact sheet (1 or 2 facts are already provided, a box to paste/draw the composer's portrait, and a birthday box to color in and decorate cupcakes! A duplicate blank page is included for students to do their own research.

Composer Research Sheet - Students can use their favorite reference materials to compile a full page of facts about the composer's home country. Some of the research options include capital, continent, population, food, and more.

Composer Rating Activity - There are more options to profile the composer on the rating sheet, including which season and musical style they belong to. This can also be used as a listening sheet or as a bulletin board display.

Word Composer Activity - The classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words and record their scores. Add a timer for an extra challenge.

Musical Selections (two pages per piece)

01. Sinfonia No. 4

02. Sonata for Violin and Piano No. 1

03. String Quartet No. 2

04. Piano Sonata No. 5

05. Concerto for Violin and Orchestra

06. Bleu for Unaccompanied Violin

07. Concerto for Piano and Orchestra

08. Pageant and Proclamation

Need More Black History Month Resources?

Share stories, create conversations, and spark a deeper appreciation for the arts all month (and all year) long! Explore ALL of the Black History Month composer packs, activities, and digital resources.

Time to use your students hype about Stanely cups! practice measuring and calculating capacity in millilitres through this engaging trending activity.

Directions:

Kids will practice how to read volume in millilitres (mL) on measuring cups. They will first write the capacity of each tumbler cup, then they will use their count by 5's 10's 25's 50's to determine the amount in each measuring cup and also to show a given amount.

GREAT FOR:

• early finishers
• Tutoring
• review for state testing
• sub tubs
• small group
• end of unit quick assessments
• homework
• reinforcement
• enrichment
• homeschooling 
• hybrid learning
• distance learning

Capacities included:

• 1000mL
• 50 mL
• 250 mL
• 100 mL
• 500 mL

You may like:

Math Map skills Grid Winter Graphing Ordered Pairs

Math Winter Activity Graphing Points - Ordered Pairs Coordinate

Winter Math Activities Graphing 5th Grade Math

Winter Math Activities Ordered Pairs Coordinate

Winter Math Activities Coordinate Plane Secret Message

Math Winter Activity - Coordinate Graphing

Or save $1.19 and get the bundle

My best reviewed freebie:

Free Long division Practice Worksheets.

Don't forget that leaving feedback earns you points toward FREE TeachShare purchases.

All the resources I make cost 25¢ for the first 24 hours! so follow my store <3 to stay updated every time I post.

Copyright ©Epsilon Maths Crafts

Permission to copy for single classroom use only.

Please purchase additional licenses if you intend to share this product.

keywords:(not necessarily related to the topic)

measurement activities first grade, measurement activities first grade, measurement activities inches, measurement activities inches, nonstandard measurement activities, nonstandard measurement activities, cooking measurement activities, cooking measurement activities, ruler measurement activities, ruler measurement activities

"I used this for Black History Month with my 3rd-5th grades and it was great! I used the listening pages to compare/contrast "Take the A Train" pieces with the symphony or with the vocalists and the students ate it up! Thank you!!!!!!!!" - Danelle F.

Just print & play! Do you need engaging jazz activities or music sub plans? These printable listening sheets offer creative ways for students to learn more about the life and compositions of Edward "Duke" Ellington! There are now three sets in one!

Learning Objectives

• increased knowledge of American jazz composer Duke Ellington
• familiarity with the composer's works
• ability to recognize, and engage with, popular pieces of music
• identify different instrument sounds
• social-emotional exploration of feelings and moods within the music
• creative expression by drawing and choosing colors related to a musical theme

Did You Know?

• Edward Ellington was known as the "Duke" for his suave and classy demeanor.
• He received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1966.
• The "Duke" was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969.
• "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2008.

★ Duke Ellington Classical Music Listening Activities

What’s Inside:

• Five Star Rating Guide
• Composer Fact Sheet: Each composer fact sheet in this series includes fun, basic information – full name, birthplace, birth date, and more. One of the composer’s most popular compositions is also included. The fact sheet contains a place for writing fun facts or notes.
• Word Composer Activity: In the classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words. Add a timer for an extra challenge.
• Birthplace Fact Sheet: Use your favorite geographical resource to find the country’s language(s), leadership, traditional foods, and more! The historical name of some territories may have changed, but the most modern country is used for easy reference.
• Birthday Coloring Page: A fun coloring page repeats the composer’s birthday, and invites the artist to color in a special cupcake to celebrate the occasion.
• Composer Study Page: Students compile a short biographical page with the composer's full name, birthplace, instruments, and more!
• Composer Vocabulary A six-word vocabulary list that typically includes the composer’s name, birthplace, instrument, or other related terms. Space is provided to trace each term and the included handwriting paper can be used for additional practice.
• Full Writing Page
• Writing/Drawing Page
• Drawing Page
• Listening Activity Sheets Listening sheets include the title of a popular piece, the composer, a black & white composer to color in, and a space for drawing any scene that may come to mind when listening. There are additional options to identify the mood of a piece and indicate which instruments are playing.
• Weather Color & Listen Sheet: While listening to the selected piece, students can color in the weather elements they feel and hear.
• Emotions Color & Listen Sheet: Students color the character(s) that best identify their emotions while listening to the music.
• Emojis Color & Listen Sheet: Twelve emojis to choose from! Students choose the emoji faces that best match their feelings or impressions about the music.

★ Duke Ellington Classical Music Activities, Black History Month, April, Jazz

Printable Listening Sheets (four pages per piece!)

1. Take the 'A' Train
2. It Don't Mean a Thing
3. In a Sentimental Mood
4. I Let a Song Go Out of My Heart
5. Perdido
6. Rockin' in Rhythm
7. C-Jam Blues
8. Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue
9. Soda Fountain Rag
10. Harlem

Resource Contents:

Composer Fact Sheet - From the composer's birthplace to the instruments they've studied, this one-page reference sheet will make a great handout for your students.

Birthplace Guide - Add in some geographical research to discover more about where the composer was born! This page includes space for writing the capital, language, and even a popular food.

Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.

Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

Printable Listening Sheet Sets Include:

1. It Don't Mean a Thing if it Ain't Got That Swing
2. In a Sentimental Mood
3. Take the 'A' Train
4. Mood Indigo
5. I Let a Song Go Out of my Heart
6. Perdido
7. Rockin' in Rhythm

★ BONUS FILE! Duke Ellington Carnival Listening Sheets (same music!)

These NEW activity sheets feature a carnival theme! Students can color their own carnival while listening to this selection of Duke Ellington compositions!

Which carnival rides and activities would best fit a piece of music? Does the tempo feel like a roller coaster or a peaceful swing ride in the sky? Choose a tasty treat from the snack bar, then stop at the prize booth before finishing. There are no wrong answers!

Carnival Listening Sheets Include:

1. It Don't Mean a Thing if it Ain't Got That Swing
2. In a Sentimental Mood
3. Take the 'A' Train
4. Mood Indigo
5. I Let a Song Go Out of my Heart
6. Perdido
7. Rockin' in Rhythm
8. Soda Fountain Rag

Need More Black History Month Resources?

Share stories, create conversations, and spark a deeper appreciation for the arts all month (and all year) long! Explore ALL of the Black History Month composer packs, activities, and digital resources.

Explore the legacy of Florence Price's music in your classroom or homeschool! Throughout these engaging listening activities, students explore the complexity and influence of Price's iconic music. This legendary American composer will encourage a deeper appreciation of classical music history with your students.

What's Included

• 1-page Resource Guide - This guide will get you started quickly! Just print and play.
• Listening Sheet Star Rating Guides - A reference sheet illustrates the five-star rating system included in most listening sheets. Each frame has a description, with one being "okay" and 5 stars as "Wow!"
• Listening Sheets - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more. There is a space for drawing and several non-musical elements to consider, such as animals and nature.
• Weather and Emotions Listening Sheets - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.
• 2 Biography Pages - Fact sheet (1 or 2 facts are already provided, a box to paste/draw the musician's portrait, and a birthday box to color in and decorate cupcakes! A duplicate blank page is included for students to do their own research.
• Musician Research Sheet - Students can use their favorite reference materials to compile a full page of facts about the composer's home country. Some of the research options include capital, continent, population, food, and more.
• Musician Rating Activity - There are more options to profile the composer on the rating sheet, including which season and musical style they belong to. This can also be used as a listening sheet or as a bulletin board display.
• Word Composer Activity - In the classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words and record their scores. Add a timer for an extra challenge.

Musical Selections (two pages per piece)

1. Symphony No. 3 in C Minor
2. Piano Sonata in E Minor
3. Violin Concerto No. 2
4. Sonata in E Minor
5. Symphony No. 4 in D Minor
6. Violin Concerto No. 1
7. Symphony No. 1 in E Minor
8. Symphony No. 2 in G Minor

Need More Black History Month Resources?

Share stories, create conversations, and spark a deeper appreciation for the arts all month (and all year) long! Explore ALL of the Black History Month composer packs, activities, and digital resources.

"This is one of my favorite things that I purchased last school year. It's a great resource to use any time of the year." - Stuck on Music Class

Print & Play! Do you need engaging and mindful activities for your Black History Month units/plans? Add music (and history!) with this selection of printable listening sheets by George Walker, Scott Joplin, Florence Price, and more!

► See the FULL PREVIEW for an inside look! Please feel free to ask any questions below.

Learning Objectives

• increased knowledge of composers
• familiarity with the composer's works
• ability to recognize, and engage with, popular pieces of classical music
• identify different instrument sounds
• social-emotional exploration of feelings and moods within classical music
• creative expression by drawing and choosing colors related to a musical theme

Listening Sheets Included: (two per piece)

1. Symphony No. 3 in C Minor, Florence Price
2. Sinfonia No. 3, George Walker
3. Violin and Piano Sonata No. 2, George Walker
4. Symphony in G Major, Op. 11, No. 1, Joseph Bologne
5. Violin Concerto in G Major, Op.2, No. 1, Joseph Bologne
6. Symphony No. 4 in D Minor, Florence Price
7. Deep River, Op. 59, No. 10, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor
8. Hiawatha's Wedding Feast, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor
9. Afro-American Symphony, William Grant Still
10. Weeping Willow, Scott Joplin
11. Sunflower Slow Drag, Scott Joplin
12. Blue in Green, Miles Davis
13. After the Rain, John Coltrane
14. Troubled Water, Margaret Bonds

Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.

Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snow day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

BONUS! Black History Month Emoji Listening Sheets

Each featured piece also has an emoji listening sheet (15 pages.)

Emoji Listening Sheets include:

Emoji Rating Guide (14 emojis to choose from, color and b&w)

Listening Sheets - there are no wrong answers! Students can use the checkboxes to note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more!

Checkbox options:

Time, nature, settings, instruments, colors, and more! Students can also color in the emojis that best describe their listening experience in the emoji grid.

The 'Inspiration Box' can be used for:

Drawing/doodling, journaling, notes, poetry, etc.

Need More Black History Month Resources?

Share stories, create conversations, and spark a deeper appreciation for the arts all month (and all year) long! Explore ALL of the Black History Month composer packs, activities, and digital resources.

Introduce students to the music of Miles Davis!

Composer Fact Sheet - From the composer's birthplace to the instruments they've studied, this one page reference sheet will make a great handout for your students.

Birthplace Guide - Add in some geographical research to discover more about where the composer was born! This page includes space for writing the capital, language, and even a popular food.

Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.

Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

Printable Listening Sheet Sets Include:

01. Donna Lee (originally attributed to Charlie Parker, but is a Davis composition.)

02. Four

03. Dig

04. Blue in Green

05. Flamenco Sketches

06. All Blues

07. Milestones

Teaching Duration

Play one to two pieces per day for a week long study, or incorporate these activities into a composer of the month plan.

Earn Free Products! Posting a rating & feedback allows you to earn credits towards future TeachShare purchases!

Need More Black History Month Resources?

Share stories, create conversations, and spark a deeper appreciation for the arts all month (and all year) long! Explore ALL of the Black History Month composer packs, activities, and digital resources.

Introduce your students to the music of Duke Ellington, one of the most influential jazz composers of the 20th century! Through his innovative compositions, exciting performances, and lifelong dedication to music, Ellington has inspired generations of fans and continues to be a source of inspiration today. Bring his music to life in your classroom and help students gain an appreciation of his unique style and lasting legacy.

What's Included:

1-page Resource Guide - This guide will get you started quickly! Just print and play.

Listening Sheet Star Rating Guides - A reference sheet illustrates the five-star rating system included in most listening sheets. Each frame has a description, with one being "okay" and 5 stars as "Wow!"

Listening Sheets - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more. There is a space for drawing and several non-musical elements to consider, such as animals and nature.

Weather and Emotions Listening Sheets

Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

2 Biography Pages - Fact sheet (1 or 2 facts are already provided, a box to paste/draw the composer's portrait, and a birthday box to color in and decorate cupcakes! A duplicate blank page is included for students to do their own research.

Composer Research Sheet - Students can use their favorite reference materials to compile a full page of facts about the composer's home country. Some of the research options include capital, continent, population, food, and more.

Composer Rating Activity - There are more options to profile the composer on the rating sheet, including which season and musical style they belong to. This can also be used as a listening sheet or as a bulletin board display.

Word Composer Activity - In the classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words and record their scores. Add a timer for an extra challenge.

Musical Selections (two pages per piece)

1. Take the 'A' Train
2. It Don't Mean a Thing
3. Mood Indigo
4. In a Sentimental Mood
5. Perdido
6. Rockin' in Rhythm
7. C-Jam Blues
8. Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue

Need More Black History Month Resources?

Share stories, create conversations, and spark a deeper appreciation for the arts all month (and all year) long! Explore ALL of the Black History Month composer packs, activities, and digital resources.

Just print & play! Do you need engaging John Coltrane activities or music sub plans? Each page offers creative ways for students to learn more about the performances of this jazz musician! Listening sheets list the song title and "Performed By: John Coltrane."

What's Included:

1-page Resource Guide - This guide will get you started quickly! Just print and play.

Listening Sheet Star Rating Guides - A reference sheet illustrates the five-star rating system included in most listening sheets. Each frame has a description, with one being "okay" and 5 stars as "Wow!"

Listening Sheets - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more. There is a space for drawing and several non-musical elements to consider, such as animals and nature.

Weather and Emotions Listening Sheets

Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

2 Biography Pages - Fact sheet (1 or 2 facts are already provided, a box to paste/draw the musician's portrait, and a birthday box to color in and decorate cupcakes! A duplicate blank page is included for students to do their own research.

Musician Research Sheet - Students can use their favorite reference materials to compile a full page of facts about the composer's home country. Some of the research options include capital, continent, population, food, and more.

Musician Rating Activity - There are more options to profile the composer on the rating sheet, including which season and musical style they belong to. This can also be used as a listening sheet or as a bulletin board display.

Word Composer Activity - The classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words and record their scores. Add a timer for an extra challenge.

Musical Selections (two pages per piece)

1. Countdown
2. Moment's Notice
3. Equinox
4. Naima
5. Lazy Bird
6. Cousin Mary
7. Afro Blue
8. After the Rain

Need More Black History Month Resources?

Share stories, create conversations, and spark a deeper appreciation for the arts all month (and all year) long! Explore ALL of the Black History Month composer packs, activities, and digital resources.

Just print & play! Do you need engaging Dizzy Gillespie activities or music sub plans? Each page offers creative ways for students to learn more about the performances of this jazz musician! Listening sheets list the song title and "Performed By: Dizzy Gillespie."

What's Included:

1-page Resource Guide - This guide will get you started quickly! Just print and play.

Listening Sheet Star Rating Guides - A reference sheet illustrates the five-star rating system included in most listening sheets. Each frame has a description, with one being "okay" and 5 stars as "Wow!"

Listening Sheets - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more. There is a space for drawing and several non-musical elements to consider, such as animals and nature.

Weather and Emotions Listening Sheets

Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

2 Biography Pages - Fact sheet (1 or 2 facts are already provided, a box to paste/draw the musician's portrait, and a birthday box to color in and decorate cupcakes! A duplicate blank page is included for students to do their own research.

Musician Research Sheet - Students can use their favorite reference materials to compile a full page of facts about the composer's home country. Some of the research options include capital, continent, population, food, and more.

Musician Rating Activity - There are more options to profile the composer on the rating sheet, including which season and musical style they belong to. This can also be used as a listening sheet or as a bulletin board display.

Word Composer Activity - The classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words and record their scores. Add a timer for an extra challenge.

Musical Selections (two pages per piece)

1. A Night in Tunisia
2. The Champ
3. Stardust
4. Round Midnight
5. Blue 'N Boogie
6. Birks' Works
7. On the Sunny Side of the Street
8. Things to Come

Need More Black History Month Resources?

Share stories, create conversations, and spark a deeper appreciation for the arts all month (and all year) long! Explore ALL of the Black History Month composer packs, activities, and digital resources.

Just print & play! Do you need engaging Charlie Parker activities or music sub plans? Each page offers creative ways for students to learn more about the performances of this jazz saxophonist! Listening sheets list the song title and "Performed By: Charlie Parker."

What's Included:

1-page Resource Guide - This guide will get you started quickly! Just print and play.

Listening Sheet Star Rating Guides - A reference sheet illustrates the five-star rating system included in most listening sheets. Each frame has a description, with one being "okay" and 5 stars as "Wow!"

Listening Sheets - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more. There is a space for drawing and several non-musical elements to consider, such as animals and nature.

Weather and Emotions Listening Sheets

Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

2 Biography Pages - Fact sheet (1 or 2 facts are already provided, a box to paste/draw the musician's portrait, and a birthday box to color in and decorate cupcakes! A duplicate blank page is included for students to do their own research.

Musician Research Sheet - Students can use their favorite reference materials to compile a full page of facts about the composer's home country. Some of the research options include capital, continent, population, food, and more.

Musician Rating Activity - There are more options to profile the composer on the rating sheet, including which season and musical style they belong to. This can also be used as a listening sheet or as a bulletin board display.

Word Composer Activity - The classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words and record their scores. Add a timer for an extra challenge.

Musical Selections (two pages per piece)

1. Yardbird Suite
2. Blues for Alice
3. Scrapple from the Apple
4. Anthropology
5. Barbados
6. Donna Lee
7. Now's the Time
8. Bebop

Need More Black History Month Resources?

Share stories, create conversations, and spark a deeper appreciation for the arts all month (and all year) long! Explore ALL of the Black History Month composer packs, activities, and digital resources.

Just print & play! Do you need engaging Melba Liston activities or music sub plans? Each page offers creative ways for students to learn more about the performances of this jazz musician! Listening sheets list the song title and "Performed By: Melba Liston."

What's Included:

1-page Resource Guide - This guide will get you started quickly! Just print and play.

Listening Sheet Star Rating Guides - A reference sheet illustrates the five-star rating system included in most listening sheets. Each frame has a description, with one being "okay" and 5 stars as "Wow!"

Listening Sheets - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more. There is a space for drawing and several non-musical elements to consider, such as animals and nature.

Weather and Emotions Listening Sheets

Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

2 Biography Pages - Fact sheet (1 or 2 facts are already provided, a box to paste/draw the musician's portrait, and a birthday box to color in and decorate cupcakes! A duplicate blank page is included for students to do their own research.

Musician Research Sheet - Students can use their favorite reference materials to compile a full page of facts about the composer's home country. Some of the research options include capital, continent, population, food, and more.

Musician Rating Activity - There are more options to profile the composer on the rating sheet, including which season and musical style they belong to. This can also be used as a listening sheet or as a bulletin board display.

Word Composer Activity - The classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words and record their scores. Add a timer for an extra challenge.

Musical Selections (two pages per piece)

1. Insomnia
2. Blues Melba
3. You Don't Say
4. Wonder Why
5. Christmas Eve
6. The Dark Before The Dawn
7. What's My Line Theme
8. Exodus

Need More Black History Month Resources?

Share stories, create conversations, and spark a deeper appreciation for the arts all month (and all year) long! Explore ALL of the Black History Month composer packs, activities, and digital resources.

Low-Prep! Ready to unlock the transformative power of classical music? This Black History Month, make classical music listening breaks a classroom staple! Students will benefit from a deeper connection to the arts while exploring iconic classical music composers throughout history.

Featured Music: At Last

Performer: Etta James

Listening Time: Approximately 3 minutes

What should I know about Etta James?

Etta James, the "Matriarch of R&B," was a force of nature who carved her name in R&B and blues and across the entire landscape of music history. Her voice could channel the power of a gospel sermon, the smoky vulnerability of a jazz ballad, and the electrifying energy of a rock and roll anthem. But Etta's impact wasn't just about her incredible voice. She was a pioneer, a trailblazer who challenged racial and gender barriers at every turn. She spoke her truth through her music, tackling themes of love, loss, and resilience with unflinching honesty, giving voice to the struggles and joys of a generation.

What are Music Breaks?

Forget tedious prep – all you need is this musical treasure trove featuring SIX dynamic activities inspired by a captivating piece of classical music. No grading, no pressure, just pure exploration! These bite-sized activities are like time-traveling portals transporting students to the heart of Black musical history.

How do I use these listening activities?

Want to boost students' active listening skills without draining your prep time? These print-and-play classical music activities are ready to go! Just find the music on YouTube or your favorite streaming services, choose and print your preferred differentiated listening sheets, and cue the music! There are no wrong answers so students select the elements that are most meaningful to them.

Where do I find the music?

Each piece gets checked for availability on YouTube, Spotify, and other popular music sources.

What types of differentiated listening activities are included?

• Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.
• Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.
• Listen & Color a Carnival - Students can color a carnival while listening to the selected music! Which carnival rides and activities would best fit a piece of music? Does the tempo feel like a roller coaster or a peaceful swing ride in the sky? Choose a tasty treat from the snack bar, then stop at the prize booth before finishing. There are no wrong answers!
• Emoji Checkbox Listening - This listening sheet style is all about checkboxes! Students note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more! Time, nature, settings, instruments, and colors are also listed. Students color in the emojis that best describe their listening experience in the emoji grid. The 'Inspiration Box' can be used for inspired drawing, journaling, notes, poetry, etc.
• Star Rating Guides - in black & white and color (two pages)
• Emoji Rating Guides - in black & white and color (two pages)
• Word Composer Challenge - compose a list of new words using letters from the composer's name. Add a timer for an extra challenge!
• Drawing/Writing Page - a freestyle approach to listening! Students can draw a scene inspired by the music selection or use the page as a writing space. Great for bulletin boards and displays!

Embark on a 12-month musical journey through time with the Classical Journey Bundle! ♬

Add a touch of mindful music to any season, holiday, or composer unit study. With over 150 categorized classical pieces, the Classical Journey Bundle offers an engaging printable for every occasion. Each month unlocks a curated selection of themed classical music pieces, perfectly paired with a holiday or season!

Low-Prep! Ready to unlock the transformative power of classical music? This Black History Month, make classical music listening breaks a classroom staple! Students will benefit from a deeper connection to the arts while exploring iconic classical music composers throughout history.

Featured Music: Somewhere Over the Rainbow

Performer: Sarah Vaughan

Listening Time: Approximately 4 minutes

What should I know about Sarah Vaughan?

While Sarah Vaughan, "The Divine One," reigned supreme in the realm of jazz, her impact on classical music resonated deeply. Her vocal virtuosity, a kaleidoscope of color and timbre, stretched beyond genre, inspiring operatic singers with its agility and jazz vocalists with its emotional resonance. Though she dreamt of opera stages, her path led her to bebop ensembles, but the classical influence lingered, evident in her flawless and meticulous phrasing. Vaughan's ability to breathe life into complex melodies, be it a Gershwin standard or a forgotten operatic aria, blurred the lines between genres, proving that musicality transcends labels and that pure vocal genius speaks a language understood by all.

What are Music Breaks?

Forget tedious prep – all you need is this musical treasure trove featuring SIX dynamic activities inspired by a captivating piece of classical music. No grading, no pressure, just pure exploration! These bite-sized activities are like time-traveling portals transporting students to the heart of Black musical history.

How do I use these listening activities?

Want to boost students' active listening skills without draining your prep time? These print-and-play classical music activities are ready to go! Just find the music on YouTube or your favorite streaming services, choose and print your preferred differentiated listening sheets, and cue the music! There are no wrong answers so students select the elements that are most meaningful to them.

Where do I find the music?

Each piece gets checked for availability on YouTube, Spotify, and other popular music sources.

What types of differentiated listening activities are included?

• Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.
• Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.
• Listen & Color a Carnival - Students can color a carnival while listening to the selected music! Which carnival rides and activities would best fit a piece of music? Does the tempo feel like a roller coaster or a peaceful swing ride in the sky? Choose a tasty treat from the snack bar, then stop at the prize booth before finishing. There are no wrong answers!
• Emoji Checkbox Listening - This listening sheet style is all about checkboxes! Students note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more! Time, nature, settings, instruments, and colors are also listed. Students color in the emojis that best describe their listening experience in the emoji grid. The 'Inspiration Box' can be used for inspired drawing, journaling, notes, poetry, etc.
• Star Rating Guides - in black & white and color (two pages)
• Emoji Rating Guides - in black & white and color (two pages)
• Word Composer Challenge - compose a list of new words using letters from the composer's name. Add a timer for an extra challenge!
• Drawing/Writing Page - a freestyle approach to listening! Students can draw a scene inspired by the music selection or use the page as a writing space. Great for bulletin boards and displays!

Embark on a 12-month musical journey through time with the Classical Journey Bundle! ♬

Add a touch of mindful music to any season, holiday, or composer unit study. With over 150 categorized classical pieces, the Classical Journey Bundle offers an engaging printable for every occasion. Each month unlocks a curated selection of themed classical music pieces, perfectly paired with a holiday or season!

Low-Prep! Ready to unlock the transformative power of classical music? This Black History Month, make classical music listening breaks a classroom staple! Students will benefit from a deeper connection to the arts while exploring iconic classical music composers throughout history.

Featured Music: Love Let the Wind Cry... How I Adore Thee

Composer: Undine Smith Moore

Listening Time: Approximately 3 minutes

What should I know about Undine Smith Moore?

Undine Smith Moore, the "Dean of Black Women Composers," wasn't just a prolific creator of over 100 vocal and instrumental works, but a trailblazer who transformed the landscape of classical music. Inspired by spirituals and folk traditions, she infused her choral pieces with rich harmonies and rhythmic vitality. She co-founded the Black Music Center and was a champion for diversity. Moore's powerful works resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning her accolades and paving the way for future generations to find their voices within the classical realm.

What are Music Breaks?

Forget tedious prep – all you need is this musical treasure trove featuring SIX dynamic activities inspired by a captivating piece of classical music. No grading, no pressure, just pure exploration! These bite-sized activities are like time-traveling portals transporting students to the heart of Black musical history.

How do I use these listening activities?

Want to boost students' active listening skills without draining your prep time? These print-and-play classical music activities are ready to go! Just find the music on YouTube or your favorite streaming services, choose and print your preferred differentiated listening sheets, and cue the music! There are no wrong answers so students select the elements that are most meaningful to them.

Where do I find the music?

Each piece gets checked for availability on YouTube, Spotify, and other popular music sources.

What types of differentiated listening activities are included?

• Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.
• Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.
• Listen & Color a Carnival - Students can color a carnival while listening to the selected music! Which carnival rides and activities would best fit a piece of music? Does the tempo feel like a roller coaster or a peaceful swing ride in the sky? Choose a tasty treat from the snack bar, then stop at the prize booth before finishing. There are no wrong answers!
• Emoji Checkbox Listening - This listening sheet style is all about checkboxes! Students note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more! Time, nature, settings, instruments, and colors are also listed. Students color in the emojis that best describe their listening experience in the emoji grid. The 'Inspiration Box' can be used for inspired drawing, journaling, notes, poetry, etc.
• Star Rating Guides - in black & white and color (two pages)
• Emoji Rating Guides - in black & white and color (two pages)
• Word Composer Challenge - compose a list of new words using letters from the composer's name. Add a timer for an extra challenge!
• Drawing/Writing Page - a freestyle approach to listening! Students can draw a scene inspired by the music selection or use the page as a writing space. Great for bulletin boards and displays!

Embark on a 12-month musical journey through time with the Classical Journey Bundle! ♬

Add a touch of mindful music to any season, holiday, or composer unit study. With over 150 categorized classical pieces, the Classical Journey Bundle offers an engaging printable for every occasion. Each month unlocks a curated selection of themed classical music pieces, perfectly paired with a holiday or season!

Low-Prep! Ready to unlock the transformative power of classical music? This Black History Month, make classical music listening breaks a classroom staple! Students will benefit from a deeper connection to the arts while exploring iconic classical music composers throughout history.

Featured Music: Blue Nile

Performer: Alice Coltrane

Listening Time: Approximately 7 minutes

What should I know about Alice Coltrane?

Alice Coltrane wasn't just a pianist who married a legend; she was a sonic architect who reshaped the very canvas of music. Rising from the fertile ground of John Coltrane's revolutionary jazz, she forged her own path paved with shimmering harp glissandos, celestial organ drones, and cascading piano runs all bathed in the vibrant hues of spiritual inquiry. Her music, once nestled within the realm of "spiritual jazz," transcended labels, morphing into a cosmic tapestry where Indian chants intertwined with devotional hymns, avant-garde experimentation danced with gospel's rhythmic soul. Albums like "Journey in Satchidananda" and "Lord of Lords" were portals to inner landscapes, testaments to her spiritual journey that resonated with seekers both inside and outside the jazz world.

What are Music Breaks?

Forget tedious prep – all you need is this musical treasure trove featuring SIX dynamic activities inspired by a captivating piece of classical music. No grading, no pressure, just pure exploration! These bite-sized activities are like time-traveling portals transporting students to the heart of Black musical history.

How do I use these listening activities?

Want to boost students' active listening skills without draining your prep time? These print-and-play classical music activities are ready to go! Just find the music on YouTube or your favorite streaming services, choose and print your preferred differentiated listening sheets, and cue the music! There are no wrong answers so students select the elements that are most meaningful to them.

Where do I find the music?

Each piece gets checked for availability on YouTube, Spotify, and other popular music sources.

What types of differentiated listening activities are included?

• Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.
• Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.
• Listen & Color a Carnival - Students can color a carnival while listening to the selected music! Which carnival rides and activities would best fit a piece of music? Does the tempo feel like a roller coaster or a peaceful swing ride in the sky? Choose a tasty treat from the snack bar, then stop at the prize booth before finishing. There are no wrong answers!
• Emoji Checkbox Listening - This listening sheet style is all about checkboxes! Students note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more! Time, nature, settings, instruments, and colors are also listed. Students color in the emojis that best describe their listening experience in the emoji grid. The 'Inspiration Box' can be used for inspired drawing, journaling, notes, poetry, etc.
• Star Rating Guides - in black & white and color (two pages)
• Emoji Rating Guides - in black & white and color (two pages)
• Word Composer Challenge - compose a list of new words using letters from the composer's name. Add a timer for an extra challenge!
• Drawing/Writing Page - a freestyle approach to listening! Students can draw a scene inspired by the music selection or use the page as a writing space. Great for bulletin boards and displays!

Embark on a 12-month musical journey through time with the Classical Journey Bundle! ♬

Add a touch of mindful music to any season, holiday, or composer unit study. With over 150 categorized classical pieces, the Classical Journey Bundle offers an engaging printable for every occasion. Each month unlocks a curated selection of themed classical music pieces, perfectly paired with a holiday or season!

Do you need engaging music activities for your classroom or homeschool? This engaging resource pack features six printable (or digital!) activities to experience. Introduce or build your students' knowledge of Cecil Taylor!

Featured Music: Bemsha Swing (Approximately 7 minutes)

► What are Brain Breaks?

This resource features six activities for the featured musical piece. These work well as low/no-prep musical breaks! Pick an activity page to pair with your lesson or experience them all! Easily incorporate music into any unit or theme. There are no wrong answers, so students are free to interpret the music and their listening experiences in their own unique way.

► How to use these listening activities:

Just print and play! These engaging listening activities are easy to add to your classroom or homeschool unit plans, special events, and holiday themes. Listening sheets make a great addition to your sub plans as well. Students enjoy discussing their listening experiences and seeing their completed work displayed!

► Where to find the music:

Each piece gets checked for availability on YouTube, Spotify, and other popular music sources.

► What's included in this resource:

1. Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.
2. Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.
3. Listen & Color a Carnival - Students can color their own carnival while listening to the selected music! Which carnival rides and activities would best fit a piece of music? Does the tempo feel like a roller coaster or a peaceful swing ride in the sky? Choose a tasty treat from the snack bar, then stop at the prize booth before finishing. There are no wrong answers!
4. Emoji Checkbox Listening - This listening sheet style is all about checkboxes! Students note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more! Time, nature, settings, instruments, and colors are also listed. Students color in the emojis that best describe their listening experience in the emoji grid. The 'Inspiration Box' can be used for inspired drawing, journaling, notes, poetry, etc.
5. 1-5 Star Rating Guide in color
6. 1-5 Star Rating Guide in black & white
7. Emoji Rating Guide in color
8. Emoji Rating Guide in black & white
9. Word Composer - compose a list of new words using letters from the composer's name. Add a timer for an extra challenge!
10. Drawing/Writing Page - a freestyle approach to listening! Students can draw a scene inspired by the music selection or use the page as a writing space. Great for bulletin boards and displays!

Embark on a 12-month musical journey through time with the Classical Journey Bundle! ♬

Add a touch of mindful music to any season, holiday, or composer unit study. With over 150 categorized classical pieces, the Classical Journey Bundle offers an engaging printable for every occasion. Each month unlocks a curated selection of themed classical music pieces, perfectly paired with a holiday or season!

Low-Prep! Ready to unlock the transformative power of classical music? This Black History Month, make classical music listening breaks a classroom staple! Students will benefit from a deeper connection to the arts while exploring iconic classical music composers throughout history.

Featured Music: Backwater Blues

Performer: Bessie Smith

Listening Time: Approximately 3 minutes

What should I know about Bessie Smith?

Bessie Smith, the undisputed "Empress of the Blues," is best known for her improvisational skill and emotional intensity that inspired singers across genres. Beyond vocal technique, Bessie's music exposed the emotional realities often absent from the world of classical music. Her songs tackled themes of poverty, love, betrayal, and resilience with unflinching honesty, paving the way for future generations of artists to bring their diverse narratives into the concert hall. The "Empress" may not have performed on grand stages or composed symphonies, but her blues laid bare the human experience in a way that resonated with audiences of all backgrounds.

What are Music Breaks?

Forget tedious prep – all you need is this musical treasure trove featuring SIX dynamic activities inspired by a captivating piece of classical music. No grading, no pressure, just pure exploration! These bite-sized activities are like time-traveling portals transporting students to the heart of Black musical history.

How do I use these listening activities?

Want to boost students' active listening skills without draining your prep time? These print-and-play classical music activities are ready to go! Just find the music on YouTube or your favorite streaming services, choose and print your preferred differentiated listening sheets, and cue the music! There are no wrong answers so students select the elements that are most meaningful to them.

Where do I find the music?

Each piece gets checked for availability on YouTube, Spotify, and other popular music sources.

What types of differentiated listening activities are included?

• Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.
• Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.
• Listen & Color a Carnival - Students can color a carnival while listening to the selected music! Which carnival rides and activities would best fit a piece of music? Does the tempo feel like a roller coaster or a peaceful swing ride in the sky? Choose a tasty treat from the snack bar, then stop at the prize booth before finishing. There are no wrong answers!
• Emoji Checkbox Listening - This listening sheet style is all about checkboxes! Students note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more! Time, nature, settings, instruments, and colors are also listed. Students color in the emojis that best describe their listening experience in the emoji grid. The 'Inspiration Box' can be used for inspired drawing, journaling, notes, poetry, etc.
• Star Rating Guides - in black & white and color (two pages)
• Emoji Rating Guides - in black & white and color (two pages)
• Word Composer Challenge - compose a list of new words using letters from the composer's name. Add a timer for an extra challenge!
• Drawing/Writing Page - a freestyle approach to listening! Students can draw a scene inspired by the music selection or use the page as a writing space. Great for bulletin boards and displays!

Embark on a 12-month musical journey through time with the Classical Journey Bundle! ♬

Add a touch of mindful music to any season, holiday, or composer unit study. With over 150 categorized classical pieces, the Classical Journey Bundle offers an engaging printable for every occasion. Each month unlocks a curated selection of themed classical music pieces, perfectly paired with a holiday or season!

Low-Prep! Ready to unlock the transformative power of classical music? This Black History Month, make classical music listening breaks a classroom staple! Students will benefit from a deeper connection to the arts while exploring iconic classical music composers throughout history.

Featured Music: The Muffin Man

Performer: Ella Fitzgerald

Listening Time: Approximately 3 minutes

What should I know about Ella Fitzgerald?

Ella Fitzgerald, the "First Lady of Song," wasn't just a singer; she was a jazz legend who redefined music. Her effortless mastery of vocal techniques spanned genres with ease, earning her fourteen Grammys, including a Lifetime Achievement award! She could swing with Basie, scat with Dizzy Gillespie, and croon lullabies with tenderness. Her improvisational skills were legendary, her scat singing a whirlwind of syllables that danced around melodies with playful precision. Ella's impact was more than just technical brilliance. In a segregated America, she rose to international stardom, captivating audiences with her charm, warmth, and sheer musical prowess. Her artistry, a testament to both joy and resilience, became a beacon of hope for people around the world.

What are Music Breaks?

Forget tedious prep – all you need is this musical treasure trove featuring SIX dynamic activities inspired by a captivating piece of classical music. No grading, no pressure, just pure exploration! These bite-sized activities are like time-traveling portals transporting students to the heart of Black musical history.

How do I use these listening activities?

Want to boost students' active listening skills without draining your prep time? These print-and-play classical music activities are ready to go! Just find the music on YouTube or your favorite streaming services, choose and print your preferred differentiated listening sheets, and cue the music! There are no wrong answers so students select the elements that are most meaningful to them.

Where do I find the music?

Each piece gets checked for availability on YouTube, Spotify, and other popular music sources.

What types of differentiated listening activities are included?

• Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.
• Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.
• Listen & Color a Carnival - Students can color a carnival while listening to the selected music! Which carnival rides and activities would best fit a piece of music? Does the tempo feel like a roller coaster or a peaceful swing ride in the sky? Choose a tasty treat from the snack bar, then stop at the prize booth before finishing. There are no wrong answers!
• Emoji Checkbox Listening - This listening sheet style is all about checkboxes! Students note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more! Time, nature, settings, instruments, and colors are also listed. Students color in the emojis that best describe their listening experience in the emoji grid. The 'Inspiration Box' can be used for inspired drawing, journaling, notes, poetry, etc.
• Star Rating Guides - in black & white and color (two pages)
• Emoji Rating Guides - in black & white and color (two pages)
• Word Composer Challenge - compose a list of new words using letters from the composer's name. Add a timer for an extra challenge!
• Drawing/Writing Page - a freestyle approach to listening! Students can draw a scene inspired by the music selection or use the page as a writing space. Great for bulletin boards and displays!

Embark on a 12-month musical journey through time with the Classical Journey Bundle! ♬

Add a touch of mindful music to any season, holiday, or composer unit study. With over 150 categorized classical pieces, the Classical Journey Bundle offers an engaging printable for every occasion. Each month unlocks a curated selection of themed classical music pieces, perfectly paired with a holiday or season!