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How to Teach Music Theory to Preschoolers

Teachers who want to include music theory in their preschool classes can develop games and activities that can help young students develop a basic understanding of the fundamental elements of music. Rhythm, harmony, melody, form and structure of music are all part of music theory. Preschoolers may not be ready to learn to read music or discuss the techniques that composers use to write music, but they are ready to move to the music. Musical chairs is a simple game that young children will enjoy. Educators can employ clapping and hopping to introduce music theory to preschoolers.

Things You'll Need

  • Recorded musical sounds
  • Chairs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Play musical chairs with the students, but instead of stopping the music, tell the students to listen for a certain musical sound, such as drums or cymbals. Arrange chairs in a circle so that there are enough chairs for all but one preschool student. Play the recording and instruct the students to walk slowly around the chairs.

    • 2

      Tell students to sit down when they hear the selected musical sound. Remove one chair and then seat the student left standing at his desk. Continue the game until one chair is left and one student wins.

    • 3

      Instruct students to clap along to the rhythm of the music as they walk around the chairs. Add hopping when they hear low notes and skipping when they hear high notes. Give students toy drums, cymbals and plastic flutes to play along with the music.

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