Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra

Just what it says, a superb guide to the instruments of an orchestra. It is based on music by Benjamin Britten who was commissioned to write music to help children understand instruments in an orchestra.

Classics for Kids

A lovely site which is designed to help children learn about classical music. It can help teachers use classical music in the classroom. It has audio files, information on composers and tips for parents on helping children get started with music lessons.

Audacity

Download this free open source software for recording and editing sounds. It is useful for recording sounds including speech for use on an interactive whiteboard.

Ten Pieces

Ten Pieces aims to open up the world of classical music to children – and inspire them to develop their own creative responses to the pieces. Why not send for the free DVD and get involved at your school?

Dallas Symphony Orchestra Kids

A music site for children and teachers from the DSO. It has information about instruments, the orchestra, composers and interactive musical activities. You can also listen to individual instruments of the orchestra.

Heroes of Troy

This BBC site is a music, singing and performance resource for children aged 9 to 12 based on the story of the Trojan War. Presented by David Grant. It has the narrated story of Helen of Troy and the Wooden Horse.

ChoralGUIDE

ChoraleGUIDE.com, a web resource for learning about writing four-part harmony in the style of J.S. Bach, is suitable for A2 students doing Bach chorales.

Music for Orchestras, Bands and Ensembles

Help, advice and suggestions for teachers who are interested in developing an orchestra or band in their school.

Sleepover Planet

A complete toolkit with lyrics and notation for producing a school musical production called Sleepover Planet. The practical advice for teachers who are staging a performance can be applied to any production.

Ludwig van Beethoven

This site from the British Library has an account of Beethoven's life.