At Music Workshop, we believe in the power of music to educate, inspire, and motivate students of all ages. Our comprehensive curriculum is designed to support teachers with engaging lesson plans and high-quality resources that bring music to life in the classroom. Explore our courses to discover how music can enrich learning.
Music Workshop offers a wide range of free classroom programming through our main series, which includes courses on musical genres, instruments, music from cultures around the world, and careers in music. Teachers can download everything they need to teach a course from the Music Workshop portal, and materials are customized for grade levels K-2, 3-5 and 6-8 (grades 9-12 can use materials from 6-8 effectively). In addition to these offerings, we provide engaging classroom resources such as Soundwaves Concerts, Ida’s Adventures, and ICAN Listen. The music curriculum is designed to stand alone or be grouped together. Courses can be taught in any order and are easy to incorporate into an existing curriculum.
The Jazz course gives students a wonderful overview on the history of jazz music and why jazz is truly an American music genre. We’ll explain improvisation and why it’s so important in jazz. The course focuses on some of the main styles and instruments of jazz. Included is a Musical Movement Minute featuring a “Call and Response” movement vocal exercise. And finally, students will be introduced to a few jazz pioneers and some of today’s great jazz artists – artists like Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis, Diana Krall and Branford Marsalis.
This course kicks off a rockin’ overview on the history of Rock n’ Roll music, focusing on the genre’s earliest years of existence. Rock n’ Roll was derived from a myriad of diverse influences and this lesson will explore a few that laid the groundwork for the birth and popularity of this exciting musical genre. Then we’ll take a listen and learn about a few of the main instruments and genres that formed early Rock n’ Roll. We finish up with an introduction to a few Rock n’ Roll musicians from the 1950’s like: Chuck Berry, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Connie Francis and Ritchie Valens.
This course builds on the Birth of Rock n’ Roll course and covers the evolution of rock music during the 1960’s and 70’s. You’ll see and hear the emerging new styles of rock as well as some innovations in technology, media and instrumentation. Students take a look at exciting developments in rock n roll including the development of new instruments like synthesizers and new sounds like the British Invasion. You’ll be introduced to a few rock and roll artists from the 1960’s and 1970’s like The Rolling Stones, The Isley Brothers, Heart, Fleetwood Mac and The Eagles.
Take off on an exhilarating journey through the dynamic expansion of rock music, from the 1980s through the present day. The Expansion of Rock course explores the transformative journey fueled by advancements in technology and the birth of MTV in 1981. Students will love checking out the iconic fashion styles of some of the most famous rock stars and we learn about some unusual or uncommon instruments that have appeared in rock music such as the bagpipes and the sitar. Students investigate diverse rock styles, from grunge to indie rock, each with its unique sound and cultural influence. Enjoy a fun fact highlighting iconic rock festivals that defined how music is enjoyed and experienced today. Students will learn about legendary artists like Prince and Tina Turner to contemporary stars like Billie Eilish and The Linda Lindas. This course is a sonic voyage through the heart and soul of rock and roll!
This look at the history of rhythm and blues music in America explores the origins of the genre and the long and diverse road R&B music took to reach its consistently popular place on the billboard charts. We’ll see the influences, history and styles of R&B as well as the instruments and voices that make it unique. Finally, we’ll introduce a few R&B pioneers and some of today’s great R&B artists.
This exciting course on Country Music gives a terrific overview on the history and characteristics of country music. It explores how, when, where and why of country music’s development, from its earliest diverse roots to finding a place in today’s popular music culture. Along with the main styles of country music, you’ll see and hear some of the cool instruments used in country music. And finally, you’ll be introduced to a few country music artists, both modern and pioneers.
A fun ride through the popular world of Pop Music! This course begins with an exploration of the elements of Pop music and what makes Pop a unique musical genre. From its roots in the 1950’s you’ll learn about what musical and cultural influences made Pop music such a widespread phenomenon. The Pop song “formula” is explained, as well as a fun look at what makes a “hook”. The course then shows students some great Pop artists of the last sixty years from Elvis to Beyoncé and Chubby Checker to Taylor Swift.
The lesson includes an overview of the history of the genre from early church music to the famous movie scores of today. Students explore the many ways classical music is a part of our everyday lives, including some surprising examples of classical music in popular commercials, TV shows and films. The course highlights some of the main styles/forms of classical music. There are demonstrations to see and hear some of the main instrument families in classical music. And finally, the course showcases some of the early classical composers and some of the most modern and contemporary classical music composers.
When it comes to storytelling, there’s nothing quite like the magic and the sights of a musical! Whether it’s live on stage or on a screen, musicals are an awesome storytelling experience. Beginning with how musical theatre developed into what we know today, we will take a look at what makes a musical a musical. Your students will learn about the types of musicals and discover some examples from both stage and screen. The musical journey continues with a sampling from the past and present of some of our favorite Musicals.
Get ready to dive into the epic story of Hip Hop, starting from the funky DJs of the 1970s all the way to today’s modern legends like Kendrick Lamar. This course teaches the styles, instruments, and elements of Hip Hop, and explores early and present day artists. Plus, check out Hip Hop breakdancers and rappers from around the world. Let’s turn up the volume and explore the amazing world of Hip Hop together!
Students learn about how and when the piano was invented and why the piano is such a versatile musical instrument. Get up-close to many of the important working parts of this complex instrument by going behind the scenes in a piano manufacturer. Next, the course explores some of the main styles or types of pianos. And finally, you’ll be introduced to a few great pianists of the past and some of today’s great piano artists.
One of the most popular instruments in the world is the guitar. Students learn about the history of the guitar, how and when the guitar was invented and why the guitar is such a popular musical instrument. Visit a luthier and an up close look at many of the important working parts of the guitar. The course focuses on some of the main styles or types of electric and acoustic guitars. And finally, you’ll be introduced to a few great guitarists of the past and some of today’s great guitar players as well.
The human voice is one of the oldest and most powerful musical instruments in the world. Students learn about how the voice works and how the voice has been used musically for centuries. The course examines the various styles of singing and singers as well as some of the various types of vocals. Students are then introduced to some great vocalists of the past and present who sing in an even larger variety of styles and genres.
This course takes the students on an epic journey around the world and back by focusing on some truly amazing and unusual musical instruments. There are three sections of world instruments, broken out by ‘strings’, ‘wind’ and ‘percussion’. In each of the three sections you’ll discover some fantastic sounding instruments that are often over looked or unknown outside their native lands. Students will see and hear these instruments in a variety of beautiful settings and will come away feeling as though they’ve been on a globetrotting, musical adventure.
The Percussion course is an exciting exploration into history of drums and percussion. Students learn about how and when drums were first invented, what they were used for and how they have grown in many interesting and diverse ways. You’ll learn how almost any object can be used as a percussion instrument. There are two basic groups or families of percussion, pitched and non-pitched – the course focuses on some of the cool pitched percussion instruments, followed by a section on un-pitched percussion instruments. You’ll be introduced to a few great percussionists of the past and some of today’s great drummers and percussionists.
This course gives students a chance to explore the diverse world of string instruments. The lesson begins with a bit of string instrument history before delving into an easy to understand explanation of how a string instrument generates sound and the importance of a resonator. Students learn about how and when some of the most basic string instruments were first invented. Students are given basic definitions of the three basic groups or families of string instruments, covering ‘tapped or hit’, ‘plucked or strummed’ and ‘bowed’. Then, the course focuses on some of the cool stringed instruments from each of those three families.
In this introduction to what makes Brass instruments Brass (hint… it’s not what material they are made of…) the students will learn about the features and instruments of the Brass family. The lesson begins with the basics of the different parts of a brass instrument, including the ‘bore’ and ‘bell’, students learn about the difference between “cylindrical’ and ‘conical’ bores and how the bore affects the sounds of the instrument. The properties of valved and slide instruments are explained. Then it is time to see the different instruments beginning with the large and medium sized Brass instruments. The journey continues with the smaller Brass instruments. Everything is brought together with the final segment, “Brass Instruments in Contemporary Music”. Students will see all kinds of brass instruments in action including marching bands and The Dirty Catfish Band playing a cover of Taylor Swift’s, “Shake it Off”.
The Woodwind family of instruments is one of the main sections of the orchestra and full of beautiful instruments. We begin this course with an introduction to this family of instruments, including the history and defining features. We discuss the two types of reed instruments – double and single reed. After an exploration of the flute family, the course focuses on the single and double reed instruments and their features. Fun facts for this course are fun introductions to nose flutes and recorders.
The Native American Traditional Music course is an exploration of some of the original music makers. Full of big sounds, handmade instruments and amazing musicians, Native American Traditional Music is used in ceremonies, storytelling, healing and so much more. We will learn about music from the twelve regions of Native American Tribes (or Nations). Students will experience many different Native American instruments like drums, rattles, rasps, flutes and vocals. Our Fun Facts in this course feature exciting introductions to Pow Wows and the Native American Music Awards.
In this course, students are exposed to the vibrant and varied musical styles of countries throughout Latin America – this lesson highlights music from Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America. Learning about Latin American music’s unique genres and instruments, students dive into the history and influences that created each country’s diverse styles of music. The Latin American & Caribbean course focuses on music from Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America. We highlight Mariachi and Ranchero in Mexico, the Mambo and Cha Cha Cha in Cuba and the feel-good sounds of Reggae in Jamaica. This exploration includes seeing new instruments like the vihuela, guitarrón, maracas, congas and bongos. We continue in the Dominican Republic with Merengue and Bachata and in Puerto Rico with Bomba, Plena and Reggaeton. The Fun Fact from this course is an introduction to the religious holiday, the Day of the Dead with its strong musical traditions. Finally, we demonstrate Calypso and Sola from Trinidad & Tobago, Tamborito from Panama and Brukdown from Belize with their unique instruments like the steel pan drum and a donkeys’ jawbone.
In this course, students are exposed to the vibrant and varied musical styles of countries throughout Latin America – this lesson highlights music from South America. We start in Colombia with Cumbia and Vallenato music and it’s instruments like the caja, guacharaca and gaita flute. In Venezuela, we discover the genre known as Joropo which features instruments like the bandola Ilanera and contrabajo. Argentina and Brazil have amazing music to dance to – Tango and Samba. We conclude with Guarania from Paraguay and Cueca from Chile. The Fun Fact is a fun look at the Latin Grammy’s and the diverse artists that are honored.
Part One highlights traditional music from North and East Africa. Music from the continent of Africa is vibrant, varied and unique. This introduction to traditional music from Africa begins with an overview of the size, diversity and many cultures within this huge continent! Students learn about traditional African rhythms and beats including common African musical characteristics like polyrhythms and polyphonic melodies. After introducing the continent, this lesson explores North and East Africa. In North Africa, students experience Gnawa music from Morocco, Ma’luf music from Algerian and Zar music from Egypt. Then onto East Africa, where students learn about Azmari vocalists from Ethiopia, the Madinda and Kadinda instruments from Uganda and the Nyatiti from Kenya. Some of the of the other featured instruments in Part One are: the Sintir, Karkabas, Ganga, Mandole, Oud, Tanbura, Mangur, Kawala, Mesenko, Krar, Washint and Kebero. The Fun Fact is a fascinating look at a type of dance created by South African mine workers called Gumboot that later evolved into a popular style of dance called Stepping.
Part Two highlights traditional music from Southern, Central and West Africa. Continuing the journey through the huge and diverse continent of Africa, the students experience traditional music from Southern, Central and West Africa. In Southern Africa, we feature the music of the Shona people in Zimbabwe and music and instruments from the country of Lesotho. In Central Africa, we learn about the Baka people of the Central African Republic and the musical culture and instruments of Angola. West Africa introduces us to the Dundun in Nigeria, Griots in The Gambia and percussion and dancing in Angola. Some of the featured instruments from Part Two are: Mbira, Ramki, Morupa, Lekoko, Hungu, Dilonga, Dizanza, Vandumbu, Limbindi, N’dehou, Ngombi, water drums, Kora and Djembe. The Fun Fact from this course is an exciting and eye-popping exploration of traditional dances from Africa: The Kumpo Dance from the Jola People of The Gambia, the Zaouli dance from the Guro people of Ivory Coast, the Indlondlo Zulu Dancers from South Africa and the Doma Dance from the Dongon people in Mali.
Part One highlights popular music from North, East and Southern Africa. Music from the continent of Africa continues to grow, develop and inspire. Popular Music from Africa is a two-part series exploring some of todays popular music from this vast, diverse and vibrant continent. We begin with several important influences in popular African music: traditional music, migration and colonization. These influences have impacted some of the distinctive elements of music from Africa: polyrhythms, polyphonic texture and improvisation. In the North, we discover the energetic sounds of Chaabi from Morocco and Rai from Algeria. In the East, we explore the dance rhythms of Benga from Kenya, hip hop inspired Bongo Flava from Tanzania and upbeat Taarab from Zanzibar. And finally, from Southern Africa, we experience rumba-inspired Kwasa Kwasa from Botswana and the gorgeous vocals of Isicathamiya from South Africa. Our Fun Fact is about Diaspora of music from Africa and how music from the continent of Africa has influenced and inspired the world.
Part Two highlights popular music from Central and West Africa. As our journey continues through the amazing popular music of today’s African continent, we move on to Central and West Africa. Central Africa features three genres that will get your feet moving – danceable Kizomba from Angola, Soukous from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Bikutsi (that means “thump the earth”) from Cameroon. Then from West Africa we are introduced to the exciting sounds of Afrobeat in Nigeria, energetic Highlife from Ghana and dance music Mbalax from Senegal. This exciting course also contains a fun Musical Movement Minute from African Beat and a fun fact that shows a viral video from Africa that went all the way around the world!
Embark on a captivating exploration of East Asia’s rich musical heritage, delving into the sounds of China, Mongolia, Japan, and South Korea. This course invites students to journey through the vibrant musical landscapes and the traditions that shape the cultures of these countries. Explore the diverse instruments of East Asia such as Japan’s koto, China’s dizi, and South Korea’s janggu. Two Fun Facts explore the sounds and techniques of Tuvan Throat Singing from Mongolia, and Karaoke from Japan which is now enjoyed all over the world! As the course unfolds, students will gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural nuances and artistry expressed through the musical styles and genres of East Asia. Celebrate the distinctive artists, styles, and instruments that contribute to the region’s rich sonic landscape.
The rhythmic beats of the tabla and the soaring melodies of the sarangi showcase South Asia’s centuries of cultural heritage, spirituality, and creativity. Discover how traditional instruments like the sitar, bansuri, and dambura are woven into classical, folk, and contemporary styles, including Qawwali, Bhangra, Sufi rock, and Indian jazz. From Pakistani shrine performances to Bhutan’s modern B-Pop, this course will inspire students to connect with the music and culture of South Asia.
This course is recommended for Grades 3 and up. Please preview the course and Music Workshop materials to deem suitability for your particular class and school.
Dive into the rich tapestry of music from the continent of Asia, with this captivating exploration of Southeast Asia. Students discover fascinating facts as they journey through the vibrant landscapes of Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Southeast Asia is home to 11 countries and includes a wealth of regional dances, from the evocative Singkil dance that echoes Philippine history, to the exhilarating Lion dance from Malaysia, embodying acrobatic prowess. We explore the captivating realm of Thai music, where instruments like the Ranat ek and Khaen, as well as traditional ensembles like Piphat and Khrueang Sai, create enchanting melodies. Venture into the soul-stirring realm of Vietnamese music, where the Đàn Đá lithophone and Đàn Bầu stringed instrument weave tales of history and emotion. A Fun Fact explores the Cambodian Shadow Puppet Theater’s ancient narratives through intricate carvings and playful movements. Indonesia, an archipelago of 17,000 islands, is full of diverse musical treasures, such as the fascinating Gamelan and Anklung. Embark on this musical odyssey through Asia, celebrating the varied musical cultures and the power of rhythm and melody to tell stories spanning centuries.
This Soundwaves Concert is a chance for your students to experience the wonder of musical performance while learning from artists about their music and lives.
This is a performance by Thunderstorm Artis, an incredibly talented singer/songwriter from a large musical family. He had a very successful run on The Voice and now tours with artists like Jack Johnson, Train and his brother Ron Artis II. Thunderstorm’s music crosses many genres including folk, rock, soul and country. We know your students will learn from and enjoy his artistry and inspiring story.
Soundwaves Concert Series are recommended for grades 3-8.
This Soundwaves Concert is a chance for your students to experience the wonder of musical performance while learning from artists about their music and lives.
This exciting, multi-lingual performance features Thomas Lauderdale and China Forbes of the internationally acclaimed band, Pink Martini. Taking suggestions from the audience, Thomas and China perform songs in 8 languages in this amazing performance for Music Workshop. Thomas and China began performing and writing songs together in 1995 in their band, Pink Martini that performs its multilingual repertoire on concert stages and with symphony orchestras around the world.
Soundwaves Concert Series are recommended for grades 3-8.
This Soundwaves Concert is a chance for your students to experience the wonder of musical performance while learning from artists about their music and lives.
Portland Cello Project is a nationally-recognized performing, recording and educational group with a revolving cast of cellists. Their ongoing mission is to bring the cello places you wouldn’t normally see it (from dance parties, to formal symphony halls, to street parties…) and to perform music on the cello you wouldn’t normally associate with the instrument (like Lizzo and Taylor Swift) alongside music from the Western Classical Tradition.
Soundwaves Concert Series are recommended for grades 3-8.
This Soundwaves Concert is a chance for your students to experience the wonder of musical performance while learning from artists about their music and lives.
Ron Artis II was born into a musical family and his passion for music ignited at a young age. Today he is traveling the globe with his entire family, and captivating audiences of all ages. Ron’s soulful music and thought-provoking meaning behind his songs will inspire your students to think about themselves in a new perspective. This concert course touches on topics such as the importance of practice, helping others in need, nurturing your own talents, and living to love and care for one another. Ron’s rich melodies and heartfelt lyrics resonate with audiences of all kinds.
The Soundwaves Concert Series is recommended for grades 3-8.
This Soundwaves Concert is a chance for your students to experience the wonder of musical performance while learning from artists about their music and lives.
Playing For Change (PFC) is a movement created to inspire, connect, and bring peace to the world through music. The PFC Band has performed more than 400 concerts in over 25 countries. This PFC Band consists of musicians from Japan, the Republic of Congo, and the United States, joining together in a unique fusion of multiple genres of music. THIS COURSE INCLUDES SENSITIVE TOPICS such as the terms refugee, dictatorship regime, and corruption. Soundwaves concerts are unscripted and we feel that it is important for students to hear the artists’ life stories to improve their global citizenship and awareness.
The Soundwaves Concert Series is recommended for grades 3-8.
This Soundwaves Concert is a chance for your students to experience the wonder of musical performance while learning from artists about their music and lives.
Glitterfox offers a unique blend of indie rock that resonates deeply with listeners of all ages. This trio—consisting of a singer, guitarist, and bassist—crafts songs that explore themes of travel, friendship, and everyday life. The emotional depth in their music can be a great example of how music can evoke feelings and tell stories, making it an excellent choice for teaching young students about expression through song.
The Soundwaves Concert Series is recommended for grades 3-8.
This Soundwaves Concert is a chance for your students to experience the wonder of musical performance while learning from artists about their music and lives.
DJ Prashant brings the dance party to the stage in this fun-filled performance. He creates mashups of American pop and hip hop with traditional Indian and Latin music, while taking the audience on a tour of his DJ equipment. DJ Prashant loves sharing the message of the power of music to help people focus, feel good, make friends, and move their bodies—Jai Ho!
The Soundwaves Concert Series is recommended for grades 3-8.
This course is a major collaboration with the musical community. From the beginning, Music Workshop believed strongly in the importance of inspiring students to have a life filled with music. Part of that was showing them that you don’t have to be a rock star to be in the music business. We recruited some of our favorite people from the music community to tell us about their “musical” jobs. Part One features a Composer, Music Store Owner, Record Company Owner, Radio DJ, Club DJ, Stage Manager and Conductor.
This course is a major collaboration with the musical community. From the beginning, Music Workshop believed strongly in the importance of inspiring students to have a life filled with music. Part of that was showing them that you don’t have to be a rock star to be in the music business. We recruited some of our favorite people from the music community to tell us about their “musical” jobs. Part Two features a Mastering Engineer, Lighting Designer, Music Arranger, Concert Promoter, Music Therapist and Music Producer. It also features 2 fun facts: “How Vinyl Records Are Made” and “How Music Effects the Brain”.
In the first episode of ICAN Listen, students lead the way in exploring music’s power to inspire joy and connection. Featuring College Boy Jesse’s uplifting Happy Song—a piece also included in Music Workshop’s Latin America & the Caribbean Course—the episode invites peers to share reflections on identity, culture, and well-being. Designed for classrooms, ICAN Listen is a collaboration between Music Workshop and All Classical’s ICAN Radio. It sparks conversation through authentic young voices and relatable experiences.
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