Orff Video Resources
Throughout the years, we've created various videos about Sonor and Studio 49 Orff instruments and their accessories. Here are a few to pique your interest! Studio 49 Bass Xylophone Comparison Judy demonstrates 3 levels of rosewood bass xylophones from Studio 49. Learn...
Music Class à la “Cart”
The fall of 2020 brought a great many challenges to our elementary music community. Due to social distancing and safety concerns, many of our teacher friends found themselves in the new situation of the "mobile classroom." We knew this would be a first-time endeavor...
A Conversation with Judy
West Music Events: We're talking conventions and workshops with Director of General Music, Judy Pine. West Music has a long history of not just supplying general classroom music teachers with quality instruments and materials, but also having a team of associates who...
The Impact of Music Lasts a Lifetime
As an educator, you get to see firsthand the growth and improvement of your students! But do you know the long-term benefits of music in the classroom? Let’s discuss the advantages of all of the wonderful work you do, because after all, “The influence of a good...
You Can Do It: Educator Resources
Navigating the 2020-2021 School Year We know this school year looks different than those before, but we at West Music are here to support and guide you through music education however we can. Below we have compiled a list of resources for online teaching, in-person...
Keeping Your Instruments Clean
As all of our teacher friends continue to discover new and creative ways for their students to be active music participants as part of Return To Learn, we have had many requests to update and republish our cleaning tips for elementary music rooms. In addition to the...
Adding Diverse Children’s Literature to Your Classroom
Kids of color, neurodiverse students, and non-binary people often do not see themselves represented in literature. Children’s books should feature these often marginalized people in a non-stereotypical, real-human way.
Accessibility and Inclusivity in the Music Classroom
Are you looking for instruments or accessories to fit the needs of the student or participant populations with specific skills? Look no further! We have a wide selection of instruments, accessories, and movement props that can be modified in usage or explored to adapt...
What Does Orff Really Mean?
Where does the term “Orff” come from? Have you also heard “Schulwerk” in your tenure playing xylophones and glockenspiels? If you’ve spent any time on westmusic.com, you’ve probably seen these terms here and there. Orff refers to a specific approach to music education...
Adding Movement Props to the Music Room
Kids love props! If your lessons are feeling a little stale, props are a great way to add some pizzazz to your classroom. Here are some of our favorite props and a few ideas to help incorporate them into your lessons. Hoop Scarf Streamers - These colorful streamers...
Return to Learn
Solutions for Active Music Making in Every Learning Situation We recognize that "Return to Learn" plans throughout the country are changing daily, and each day brings new questions that require creative answers. Ryan West, President of West Music, and Judy Pine,...
5 Tips for a Successful School Musical
Surprise! You're in charge of planning the spring musical for your school. Putting together a successful school musical can be overwhelming, but here are a few tips to help turn your program into the talk of the town. Gather Your Team of Experts – Chances are,...