How Do I Use Play-Along Videos in My Classroom?
Play-along videos are a fun and engaging tool in the music classroom, but how can we make sure they’re educationally valuable? Watching and playing can be enough - especially right before a break or at the end of a school year. However, here’s a way to use them to enhance their learning of music.
Why Use Play-Along Videos?
Engagement: Students love the interactive, real-world feel of playing with a track.
Confidence: Playing "with other musicians" (even virtually) builds self-esteem.
Variety: Play-alongs open the door to different musical styles and genres.
How to Use Play-Along Videos Effectively
1. Prepare with Manipulatives
Before jumping into the video, give students manipulatives (like rhythm charts, body percussion guides, or flashcards) to break down the pattern. These help students study, read, and perform the rhythms or movements.
2. Teach the Patterns First
Break down the rhythms or body percussion into manageable chunks. Use call-and-response, clapping, and verbal counting to ensure students understand the patterns before they perform them.
3. Add Active Listening
Encourage students to listen closely to the tempo, dynamics, and rhythms of the play-along video before they play. This helps them mentally prepare and identify key elements of the music.
4. Performance Time!
Once students have practiced, they can perform along with the video. Set goals like staying in time or making the movements more fluid. Record and review their performances to enhance learning.
5. Reflect and Review
After performing, discuss what went well and what could be improved. This encourages self-assessment and reinforces the learning process.
Additional Resources
For manipulatives and play-along videos, check out my YouTube channel and my Buy Me A Coffee page, where you can download PowerPoints and PDFs (many for free!). You’ll also find my weekly blog posts with teacher tips, tech insights, and more resources to enhance your teaching.
Enjoy the process and have fun with it! With the right preparation, your students will learn more than just how to play—they’ll gain valuable skills in music literacy and performance.