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Band Directors Talk Shop

4 Band Activities for May 4th (May the Fourth Be With You)

30 Apr
may the 4th band activities

1. Teach your students about the interval of a fourth. Give them a simple pattern of fourths to play. Also have them play chords in fourths.

2. Teach them the theme song from Star Wars. Great opportunity to teach triplet patterns!

may the 4th band activities

3. Use famous quotes from Star Wars throughout the class.

  • When a student plays really well – “The force is strong with this one.”
  • When a student says they want to ‘try’ to play off a scale – “Do or do not. There is no try.”
  • Before a nervous student plays for the class – “Fear is the path to the dark side.”
  • If a student is struggling – “Use the force, Luke.”
  • Tell them a story about when you were in band – “A long time ago in a band hall far, far away…”
  • If a student says they can’t do something – “Be mindful of your thoughts Anakin. They’ll betray you.”
  • As they leave class – “Remember…the Force will be with you, always.”

4. Show them one or both of these videos. Or better yet, do a mini lesson on John Williams, the man man behind the music of our favorite Star Wars movies.  Click the picture below for a fantastic lesson plan for May 4th (or any other time of year) This plan is also perfect for a sub!

  • John Williams conducts Princess Leia’s Theme (Star Wars)
  • John Williams Conducts The Main Theme From Star Wars
  • John Williams Lesson Plan and Music Listening Activity  

John Williams Lesson Plan

This John Williams lesson plan is also part of our band sub plans bundle!  Check it out here:

Band sub plans! Be prepared for your sub this busy concert season! For more great band ideas, visit Band Directors Talk Shop on Teachers Pay Teachers!

Related Reading:
End of Year Survival Guide for Band Directors
9 Things to do Before Closing the Band Hall Doors for Summer
Meaningful Gifts for Students When They “Graduate” From Your Band Program

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Band Directors Talk Shop is all about helping you be a better band director so your students can be better musicians.  It is a collaborative effort of band directors, former band directors, private lesson teachers and fine arts administrators. Learn.  Posts will strive to teach you something you can use in your classroom today. ... Read More about About Us

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