Online Learning Resources
The web offers countless resources for learning more about classical music. Here is our guide to the best of the best....for kids, adults and those who want to dive really deep.
For Kids, Parents and Teachers
Jazz Kids
A set of learning tools to help kids learn to improvise on the piano. Purchase play along books and cds, view workshops in your area, or take a lesson online.
For Kids, Parents and Teachers
KIDiddles
Find lyrics to 2,000 kids songs, listen to or download audio clips or use the search tool if you know a few words and want to find the song. You can also print sheet music and lyrics, all for free.
For Kids, Parents and Teachers
Music Education at Data Dragon
Data Dragon provides exercises in reading music, tips on different instruments and genres, and a daily digest of historical happenings. Their new feature is a message board for asking musical questions.
For Adults - General
Naxos Introduction to Classical Music
The recording label Naxos has an extensive introductory section, including glossaries, instrument histories, opera synopses and libretti, as well as some helpful essays about concertgoing protocol and advice.
For Kids, Parents and Teachers
NY Philharmonic Kidzone
The New York Philharmonic Kidzone is an interactive, animated site for kids (who can read), with sections on instruments of the orchestra, composers, members of the orchestra, musical matching games and composing games. Sound clips available throughout the site. (Requires Adobe Shockwave player)
For Kids, Parents and Teachers
Pandora Radio
Pandora is free Internet radio, with choices of what type of music to stream. Genre stations for kids include Toddler, Tween, Lullabye and Children's Folk Songs.
For Kids, Parents and Teachers
PBS Jazz Kids
This PBS site teaches younger, elementary school kids about jazz artists and instruments and allows them to play with improvisation. Set up your bandstand and get ready to jam.
For Kids, Parents and Teachers
Perfect Pitch
This flash animation tool uses the metaphor of baseball to introduce students to the instruments of the orchestra. Users learn about the difference between baroque, romantic, classical and modern instruments and styles by changing the "line-up" and listening to the results. There is an accompanying lesson plan, developed by the Kennedy Centers ArtsEdge program.
For Kids, Parents and Teachers
PlayMusic
Organized by the League of American Orchestras, this animated site connects to numerous online resources, and provides some interactive and readable information for kids as well.
For Kids, Parents and Teachers
Quia Learning Resources
Quia challenges middle and high school students to test their knowledge of the basics. Subscribers like teachers and students can even create their own quizzes and games. Play matching, hangman, word searches, or answer questions on musical and other topics.
