Teaching Music in Elementary Grades

Attending the workshop Teaching Music in Elementary Grades with Professor Yvonne Chan was a meaningful and eye-opening experience. The workshop focused on how educators can overcome anxiety around teaching music, and approach the subject with confidence. Professor Chan provided strategies to simplify music instruction, making it more accessible, yet still impactful, for both teachers and students. 

Before this workshop, my experience with music instruction was limited to basic topics, such as instrument families or making instruments in class. I often felt overwhelmed by the idea of teaching musical concepts like notes, rhythm, composition, or the use of instruments. It was difficult to know where to begin, especially without a formal background in music. However, this workshop changed my mindset. 

I was introduced to important components of the elementary music curriculum. I learned that music instruction can be taught through smaller, manageable steps that help students build understanding over time. Professor Chan guided us through hands-on activities where we explored instruments, learned to read basic notes, practiced rhythms, and created short bars of music in groups. The use of gradual learning helped me see how students can learn in the same way. I did not feel pressured to be perfect. Instead, I felt encouraged to try, make mistakes, and learn from the process. 

This learning was significant because it gave me more confidence to teach music. I realized that I do not need to be an expert to teach music. Music is not meant to be stressful, but a subject where students can express their creativity. It only requires me to be open, willing to learn alongside my students, and to have fun with it. This workshop gave me both the tools and the mindset to do that. It encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone and embrace the possibilities of teaching music in ways that are not intimidating. 

In the future, I will introduce music through hands-on activities, using clear steps to build students' musical knowledge. I will encourage active participation and experimentation of sounds, knowing music is about self-expression and creativity, not mastery. I will use rhythm games, movement, and instruments to support learning and make music an enjoyable experience. 

EDU491- biancapanaro@NUO