Teachers can show students images associated with nature, such as honeybees and budding flowers, and play music that makes these photographs come alive. Musical pieces, such as Rimsky-Korsakov's "Flight of the Bumblebee" and Antonio Vivaldi's "Spring" (from "The Four Seasons"), can engage emotions and help students become more passionate about music.
Teach students to identify unique sounds and instruments used by different cultures. Teachers can introduce students to the background and history of certain instruments -- such as lyres, flutes, and cymbals -- and explain their significance to Native American tribes, for instance. Lessons should touch on the origins and sociology of the musical style, and if possible, incorporate the actual instruments into the classroom. This helps students examine and compare instruments with those of other cultures.
Students who have language difficulties can benefit from music, as they can sing through difficult words and extend their vocabularies through the lyrics of a song. This learning experience can make kids appreciate music, as they will learn and grow through new sounds and styles. Teachers who wish to help students improve their English can alternate between English and native language stanzas. This may make students feel more comfortable and, as a result, they'll enjoy learning through the use of music.
An important part of any music teacher's job is to help students get excited about music and the creativity it fosters. Teachers may use a fun film, such as "School of Rock," to get kids excited about lyrics, instruments, teamwork and the process of learning. Students can also learn how to listen to different genres of music and lend their appreciation for a specific instrument or sound to a new experience.