October is a great time to add a little spooky fun to music lessons. This month’s roundup features ideas for using the folk song Skin and Bones with instruments or in a concert with glow sticks, the folk song Who Has Seen the Wind in minor tonality with a free rhythm and pitch worksheet, and two different activities for In the Hall of the Mountain King. With free printables and listening guides, I hope your October lessons will be both fun and easy to prep.
🎼 In the Hall of the Mountain King (Free Rhythm Cards)
This piece is such a fun way to explore rhythm. In this post, I share an easy sequence for teaching eighth notes, quarters, and rests that lets students feel the beat before they read it. Plus, free rhythm cards that students can use to write the rhythm pattern of the main theme.
🎶 In the Hall of the Mountain King: Part Two (Free Listening Guides)
In part two, the focus shifts to timbre. You’ll find simple listening prompts and questions that help students describe describe timbre, as well as a free listening guide and worksheets to help students identify instruments and their families.
🍂 Who Has Seen the Wind? (Free Worksheet)
I revisited this song with new lesson ideas for rhythm, pitch, and instruments. There’s also a free worksheet you can print and use right away.
👻 Skin and Bones
This spooky and fun song is perfect for fall. I walk through a step-by-step sequence for adding instruments like Orff, Boomwhackers™, and recorder, plus a few ideas for concert flair.
🧙 Witch Witch (So & Mi Song + Game)
This simple game is a favorite for practicing so and mi. It’s playful, easy to set up, and keeps students engaged while they sing and play.
🎃 Pumpkins, Please!
If you’re looking for a pumpkin-themed song, I shared one in my September roundup, along with even more fall content. Check it out here.
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