Winter can feel long, cold, and a little heavy for both teachers and students. When motivation dips and energy runs low, fun music activities can be the spark that brings everyone back to life. And what a better way to do that than by chasing those winter blues away with fun music activities for this season!

In this post, I’m sharing winter-themed music activities designed to chase those winter blues away. These ideas add movement, creativity, and playfulness to lessons while still building important musical skills. They are easy and full of seasonal fun! There is a mix of minimal prep using what you have on hand. I will also highlight some from my store and also include a warm surprise you can use with your students! Winter lessons should feel just as warm and engaging as any other time of year.

SNOWBALL FIGHT

On some pieces of paper write down some music theory questions, notes, rhythms, intervals, symbols, etc. The more, the better. I recommend double or triple the number of students playing, so there are plenty to choose from. Once you have everything on the papers, then crumble the paper into “snowballs”.

When prompted, students will toss the “snowballs” across the room until you tell them to stop. Then they will pick one up and take turns answering the question inside. For added musical fun – Turn on winter themed music for the start of the snowball fight and turn it off for the “freeze”.

SNOWBALL SCOOP

Crumble up paper for your snowballs OR use silly stuffed “snowballs” (amazon affiliate) similar to the ones above that I have… Place theory flashcards next to each other, creating “snowdrift” on the floor. Students toss or roll their snowball in the “snowdrift” pile. Then they will pick up the card closest to where it lands to answer the flashcard.

FREEZE DANCE

Warm up with this brain break game! I created a bundle where you can not only have fun with a freeze dance, but you can combine it with a rhythm card game where students will be clapping rhythms, dancing and playing. So fun!

FREEZE DANCE BONUS IDEA

To go along with the freeze dance above. Students must answer a theory question before continuing. OR if they are caught “melting” (not frozen in place) they answer a question.

SNOWMAN CHORDS

Review chords and inversions by building snowmen! Here are a few ideas to make it extra fun!

• Draw chord patterns on a whiteboard staff and add the snowman body (hat, hands…), name the chord and play it.
• Use cotton balls on a staff for the snowman body, build the snowman chords, name and play.
• Use silly stuffed snowballs (mentioned above) and build them on a staff.

SNOWBALL NOTES AND INTERVALS

Use cotton balls or stuffed snowballs and place on a staff or keyboard to name notes and intervals.

WINTER PRACTICE CHALLENGE

A short winter challenge is a perfect way to warm up students’ practice goals during the colder months. The S’More Snowmen Practice Challenge is packed with 50 s’more-themed goal ideas, along with games, fun printables, and extra surprises to keep students excited and consistent.

Wrap it all up with a celebration by hosting a s’more party, a cozy winter (or end-of-winter!) party using the games from this post, or simply reward students who complete the challenge with a special treat. It’s easy, motivating, and best of all, I’ve done the heavy lifting for you, so you can focus on cheering your students on and enjoying the winter season.

WINTER PIECES TO PLAY

There are so many fun winter-themed pieces that can spark motivation during this season, and I thought I’d shine a spotlight on one that I composed. It features an easy-going melody paired with a satisfying bass pattern and a playful twist that students love. Students literally “pop” those winter blues away!

You can bring it to life using a pop-it toy, bubble wrap, bells, other instruments, or even fun sound effects. It’s a simple way to add sensory fun, creativity, and joy while reinforcing steady rhythm and coordination. Perfect for keeping winter lessons fresh and engaging.

Tip! The performer does not need to be the same person as the “popper”. (Though it can be)

ICE SKATING RHYTHMS

I’ve done this one several times with my students and it’s a lot of fun. You will need some paper plates (yes they will get ruined, it’s okay). Students will stand on the paper plate and skate to the rhythm they hear or see. Just be careful that they don’t skate too crazy, don’t want anyone to slip and fall!

SLEDDING INTERVALS

Students “sled” from a starting note to a target note. They will then name the interval and play it.

HOT CHOCOLATE BOARD GAME FREEBIE

Warm up with this hot chocolate freebie! A perfect way to review any theory concepts you want with your students. My gift to you! Enjoy!