Invented (Homemade) Instruments

This unit is one of my all-time favorites. In fact, it’s the only unit I have taught every single year of my career.

Lessons preceding this Unit:

Orchestra Review & Ethnomusicology

Lesson 1

Explain the Invented Instrument assignment and show pictures.

Lessons 2-3

Students browse books or the internet for ideas, fill out the Instrument Plan Form, and bring in materials to build if they want to (most would rather work at home).

Lessons 4-5

Explain sound piece, students work in class.

Links for Making Your Own Instruments

• Pinterest
• Crafty Cow
• Instructables
• DSO
• Red Ted Art
• Buzz Feed

There are so many more links and even YouTube videos.

Books for Making Your Own Instruments

See also

• Ethnomusicology lesson
• orchestra
• instruments

Extras for Plus Members

or available for purchase here

• Invented Instruments & Sound Piece Assignment and Instrument Plan Worksheet

• Handouts with Photos

• Invented Instruments & Sound Piece Rubrics (2 versions)

• PowerPoint (with student instrument photos and explanation of assignment)

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