Classroom Set Up

Just as the slide above shows, there is a LOT more to think about when setting up a music classroom versus a traditional classroom.    It is a lot to think about, but a complete game changer when it is time to teach! You and your students will LOVE it!

Chair and Station Placement: 

• Student Groups/Stations: Make use of a rug designed with circles, numbers, letters, etc.. No rug? Make use of different colors of painter's tape (doesn't cause glue to stick on the rug and holds up to traffic). Get creative! 

• Rehearsal Rooms: Create different "teaching areas" in your classroom so you can change location as needed. And, create an alley between rows of desks facing you so that you can move as needed but also see each student. Using painter's tape to keep chairs and stands from migrating into the alley and away from the rest of the group. 

• Student Directed Learning Time: Arrange the students in a circle with the students facing away from the center and place yourself in the middle. You will be able to see every group and (bonus!) the kids will know you are right behind them. This set up also allows you to call students into the center for conferencing. 

In situations when you have students all facing away from the middle of the room or to one side, you can then ask students to turn around to face you for instruction or transitions. 

And, don't forget about flipping your classroom using video.  You can set up your room for optimal viewing from a large screen while you circulate and assist. So many options! 

Ways to Furnish Your Classroom:

• Reconsider the furnishings you already have. 

• Borrow from the school’s storage closet, warehouse, and ask your colleagues and friends!

• Repurpose items found at thrift stores and garage sales.

• Donors Choose, Facebook marketplace, and the Dollar Store or Family Dollar are excellent resources. 

• Ask parents and your community for items, expertise, or help.