music education

Nate Holder’s journey to Listen and Celebrate

I’m really excited about Listen & Celebrate, a new book I’ve co-written with Helen MacGregor and published with Collins Music. It’s designed for KS1 and KS2 teachers interested in introducing pupils to music created around the world and across history. This book aims to be a resource that… Read More

Ideas for safe music lessons post-lockdown in Years 2-5

The benefits of music have been well-researched and documented and show that carefully planned music provision has the potential to support children’s emotional well-being during these disturbing times, providing a positive sense of community, confidence and enjoyment and an expressive outlet. But how can we alleviate some of the effects of this unsettling time through music teaching while observing the current safety guidelines? Read More

Ideas for safe music lessons post-lockdown in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6

The benefits of music have been well-researched and documented and show that carefully planned music provision has the potential to support children’s emotional well-being during these disturbing times, providing a positive sense of community, confidence and enjoyment and an expressive outlet. But how can we alleviate some of the effects of this unsettling time through music teaching while observing the current safety guidelines? Read More

Activities for Key Stage 2 home music lessons

Do you want some lively key stage 2 music lesson ideas for your home-schooling timetable? Would you like fun activities which can be used at any time of the day to engage and refresh your child? Would you like to develop all-round skills which help enhance learning across other subjects? Read More

Activities for Key Stage 1 home music lessons

Do you want some lively key stage 1 music lesson ideas for your home-schooling timetable? Would you like fun activities which can be used at any time of the day to engage and refresh your child? Would you like to develop all-round skills which help enhance learning across other subjects? Read More

Five tips for home music-making with early years and primary-aged children

Are you a parent or teacher who finds themselves responsible for devising or delivering home-based music lessons? Are you looking for advice and ideas for activities? Are you feeling apprehensive at the thought of teaching music, or perhaps you’re just not sure where to begin? Read More

How to teach flute technique – 6. Finger work

Holding the flute is not a particularly natural thing for a human being to do! This blog helps beginners build finger strength and dexterity for flute. Read More

How to teach flute technique – 5. Articulation

This exercise for beginner flautists teaches them articulation that helps them to start notes cleanly and support each note with their diaphragm. Read More

How to teach flute technique – 4. Playing loudly and quietly

Exercises and instructions to teach a basic flute embouchure technique which will help beginners acheive some dynamic variety. Read More

How to teach flute technique – 3. Posture

Teaching good posture from the beginning will reap benefits straight away in reducing tension in the head, neck, shoulders, arms and fingers. I always encourage my pupils to practise standing up if they can... Read More