You Can Do It: Educator Resources
Navigating the 2020-2021 School Year We know this school year looks different than those before, but we at West Music are here to support and guide you through music education however we can. Below we have compiled a list of resources for online teaching, in-person...
Keeping Your Instruments Clean
As all of our teacher friends continue to discover new and creative ways for their students to be active music participants as part of Return To Learn, we have had many requests to update and republish our cleaning tips for elementary music rooms. In addition to the...
Adding Diverse Children’s Literature to Your Classroom
Kids of color, neurodiverse students, and non-binary people often do not see themselves represented in literature. Children’s books should feature these often marginalized people in a non-stereotypical, real-human way.
Accessibility and Inclusivity in the Music Classroom
Are you looking for instruments or accessories to fit the needs of the student or participant populations with specific skills? Look no further! We have a wide selection of instruments, accessories, and movement props that can be modified in usage or explored to adapt...
What Does Orff Really Mean?
Where does the term “Orff” come from? Have you also heard “Schulwerk” in your tenure playing xylophones and glockenspiels? If you’ve spent any time on westmusic.com, you’ve probably seen these terms here and there. Orff refers to a specific approach to music education...
Adding Movement Props to the Music Room
Kids love props! If your lessons are feeling a little stale, props are a great way to add some pizzazz to your classroom. Here are some of our favorite props and a few ideas to help incorporate them into your lessons. Hoop Scarf Streamers - These colorful streamers...
Return to Learn
Solutions for Active Music Making in Every Learning Situation We recognize that "Return to Learn" plans throughout the country are changing daily, and each day brings new questions that require creative answers. Ryan West, President of West Music, and Judy Pine,...
5 Tips for a Successful School Musical
Surprise! You're in charge of planning the spring musical for your school. Putting together a successful school musical can be overwhelming, but here are a few tips to help turn your program into the talk of the town. Gather Your Team of Experts – Chances are,...
Recorder Resources
Looking for a new recorder method for your classroom? We’ve got you covered! These are some of our most popular recorder method resources that include student books, classroom resources, and the music teacher stamp of approval.1. Recorder Express – A great book for...
Sing Outside the Music Room
Singing doesn't have to stay in the music room! Singing is incredibly beneficial to people of any age for a variety of reasons - from lowering stress levels to helping with memorization. The best way to encourage singing in the classroom is to practice it outside the...