In this short extract from a music lesson the teacher explores singing with a traditional African song.

Encouraging listening children identify instruments in Baroque style piece.

Linking instruments and characters.

These Whole Class Instrumental Teachers have brought all three year groups to the hall for a larger singing lesson.

Listening to an organ piece, children recap their knowledge of tempo.

Chime bars are used to perform rhythms created from food names.

Using food names, children improvise rhythms.

In this y8 classroom music lesson, the teacher encourages the class to map out ideas for arranging the song "Stand by...

Children are encouraged to respond to a question in contrasting voices.

Vocal specialist explains the rationale behind 'Have you brought your voice?

Vocal specialist explains rationale behind using this expressive song

Vocal specialist explains this song can be taught effectively to all ages.

I'm a little teapot and the 'ABC' song, pulse and actions.

Teacher reflection on first steps in EYFS music.

Looking at loud and quiet, long and short notes.

Listening and joining in to a catch-on song with increasing complexity.

Encouraging participation requiring strong vocal line from children.

Children respond to teacher actions like 'Give Me 5', Give Me 10, Low 10...

Vocal specialist makes the case for teaching vocal starters.

Children respond to the name song, singing their own name to the backing.

Using Charanga, class warm-up buzz, put their mouthpiece in play.

Vocal specialist explains rationale behind 'Give Me 5' vocal starter.

Vocal specialist explains rationale behind this kinaesthetic vocal starter.

Forensic look at the detail of teaching a role song.

Set up and introduction establishes clear expectations and routines.

Playing 'piano' and 'forte'. Crescendo is played too.

Managing a mini plenary, homework and packing instruments away.

Singing at end of brass lesson to internalise piano and forte.

Using a simple tune, these young players concentrate on reading the music.

Completing a successful lesson, diaries are filled in.

Mick Waters considers the place of rote learning in education and its strengths and limitations.