Education: Activities

Critical Listening and Creative Writing

Musical Story
Have you ever made up a story about a piece of music? Maybe you've pictured a valiant knight fighting a dragon while listening to Beethoven's Fifth Symphony, or a graceful swan flying through the air during a Debussy Prelude? Listen to a piece of music and write a story about it... let your imagination run wild!

Tell a Friend
We all like to share things that we love with out friends. Well, how about sharing a favorite pice of music? What makes this piece so special to you? What do you think your friend will like about it? Sharing is always more fun!

Interviewing

Interview a Musician
From the Top radio show host Chris O'Riley needs your help! Pretend to be a guest host on the show and think of questions you would like to ask one of the young musicians. Then guess their answers... the more imagination the better!

You're the Star
Now's your chance to feel like a star as you answer questions at your own interview! You pick the questions and you supply the answers... what have you been wanting to tell the world?

Roving Reporter
Hayley Goldbach, From the Top's Roving Reporter, wants you to join her team of young investigative journalists! Find someone you admire in your community, the interview him/her!

Role Modeling

About the Performer
Pick one performance from a From the Top radio show and try to imagine it from the performer's perspective. What do you think the performer was thinking and feeling while he/she was playing? What do you think his/her main strengths were? What kinds of things did he/she find difficult?

About You, the Listener
Listen to the From the Top radio show, then write about your reaction to the show. What did you see, feel, hear and think about during the show? What are your musical strengths and weaknesses? What would you tell a friend about the show? Give it a try!

About You, the Performer
It's time to switch roles, because now you are the performer! What song do you like to sing? Perform the piece for your friends and family, then write about your experience.

Exploring Multiple Representations of Music

Feeling Words
Have you ever listened to a piece of music that made you feel happy or energized? How about one that made you sad or sleepy? Listen to a piece and write about how it makes you feel.

Draw the Music
Do you ever see scolors or shapes when listening to a piece of music? What would music look like if you drew it? Draw a piece of music while listening with a friend and compare your art!