Lesson 1: Exploring the Percussion Family

What instruments belong to the percussion family?

How do different percussion instruments create sound?

Percussion, membrane, bar, shaker, drumhead, vibration

NAfME 1.1: Identify and describe characteristics of common musical instruments

NAfME 1.2: Demonstrate proper handling and care of instruments

Students are introduced to a variety of percussion instruments such as drums, mallet instruments, and small auxiliary percussion. The lesson focuses on understanding how sound is produced through striking, shaking, or scraping.

Students may think all percussion instruments are drums.

Students may assume louder playing always produces a better sound.

Allow students to explore instruments hands-on.

Use pictures or demonstrations for students who need visual support.

• Students identify several percussion instruments and describe how they make sound.

• Teacher observation during instrument exploration activities.