Countdown to 2026: 10 short activities that you can use immediately - #2 Auld Lang Syne Boomwhacker Play-Along

🎶 #2: Auld Lang Syne Boomwhacker Play-Along

This Boomwhacker play-along is a high-energy way to welcome students back into active music-making. With clear visuals, color-coded cues, and a familiar melody, students can jump right in and feel successful within the first few minutes of class.

Boomwhackers naturally bring excitement into the room, and this activity channels that energy into purposeful learning. Students practice melodic patterns and rhythmic skills—including dotted quarter note rhythms—while staying engaged and focused.

Two Ways to Play: You Choose What Works Best!

Boomwhacker Play-Along (No Notation)

Perfect for younger students or those still developing reading skills, this version uses color cues and visuals to guide performance. It’s ideal for Grades K–2 or as a low-stress re-entry activity for any class.

Boomwhacker Play-Along with Full Notation

For older elementary students who are ready to read music, this brand-new notation-based play-along takes things up a notch. Available on my YouTube channel, this version allows you to:

• Adjust the tempo to meet your students where they are

• Change the key if you’re integrating band or orchestra instruments

• Customize the display to support different learning styles

It’s a wonderful option for Grades 3–5 and a great bridge between general music and instrumental work.

Supporting Manipulatives

To help set students up for success, I’ve created downloadable manipulatives that support all of the Auld Lang Syne activities:

• PS/K Steady Beat

• Rhythm Play-Along

• Boomwhacker (with and without notation)

These resources—available on my Buy Me a Coffee page—include rhythm cards, Boomwhacker visuals, and simple step-by-step guides. They’re perfect for reviewing patterns before pressing play, which makes the performance feel smooth and confident.

Tips for a Smooth First Day Back

• Preview first: Use the manipulatives to review rhythms or color patterns before the video

• Practice in chunks: Let students try each pattern slowly before putting it all together

• Adjust the tempo: Use YouTube playback speed or Soundslice tempo controls to start slow

• Differentiate easily: Choose the notation or non-notation version based on your class

Why This Activity Works

• Engaging: Students are actively playing, not passively watching

• Educational: Reinforces rhythm, pitch, ensemble skills, and musical independence

• Flexible: Easily adaptable across grade levels and learning needs

Ring in the New Year with Music

The Auld Lang Syne Boomwhacker play-alongs are a joyful way to re-establish routines while celebrating a fresh start. Your students get to move, play, and succeed—and you get a ready-to-go lesson that still feels meaningful.

I hope this activity brings ease and inspiration as you welcome students back. Wishing you a healthy, joyful start to 2026—
and be sure to check back tomorrow for #1. Happy New Year and happy teaching! 🎉🎶