Instrument Parade Day

Lesson 7: Let's Go on an Instrument Parade!

Duration

30 MIN

Objective

Students will be able to play a steady beat on a classroom instrument while marching in a line, contributing to a joyful school-wide parade.

Materials Needed

Slides: Parade Day
Homemade or classroom shakers
Drums, tambourines, rhythm sticks
Parade Route Map

Key Concepts

Steady Beat

Keeping the pulse while moving.

Parade

A celebratory procession.

Ensemble

Playing together as a big group.

Instructional Arc

5 MIN

Warm-up March

"Left, Right, Left, Right!" March in place to a steady drum beat. Practice high knees and swinging arms. Emphasize that the feet move exactly with the drum.

5 MIN

Choose Instruments & Prep

Students choose an instrument (or use their homemade shakers). Show the Parade Day slides. Discuss the "Route Map" so everyone knows where they are going.

10 MIN

Practice the Parade Beat

Practice marching and playing at the same time in the classroom. "Shake-Shake-Shake-Stop!" Use the conducting signals from Lesson 2 to start and stop the whole parade.

7 MIN

The School Parade

March through the hallways or playground. Stop at other classroom doors for 30 seconds to show off our beat-playing skills. Encourage "proud posture" and smiles.

3 MIN

Celebrate our Performance

Return to the classroom. Take a "Final Bow." Discuss: "Who did you see during the parade?" and "How did it feel to play together as one big band?"

Logistic Tip

Tell other teachers in advance so they can peek out of their rooms and wave. It makes the students feel like real musical stars!

The Leader

Have the teacher play a large, loud drum (Bass Drum) to keep the tempo. It provides the "anchor" that helps the kids stay together.

Instrument Parade Day

Parade Day Lesson Plan

Parade Day Slides