Composer of William Tell Overture
The William Tell Overture was composed by Gioachino Rossini. This piece premiered in 1829, and was the last opera written by Rossini.
I always like to share a couple fun facts about a song’s composer with my students. Here are a couple fun facts about Rossini:
- He was able to retire in his 30s due to the popularity of his music.
- Both his parents were musicians.
- He was born on Feb. 29 (Leap Day), 1792, so he only celebrated 19 birthdays in his lifetime.
- He loved fine dining, and has several dishes named after him.
Teaching the Overture to William Tell
William Tell Overture Listening Map
Once we know a little bit about Gioachino Rossini, we jump in and listen to the song. Often when I have students listen to a piece for the first time, I find that a listening map can be helpful to follow along. I can display the listening mpa on the oard while they follow along with their own copy.
Click here for this William Tell Overture Listening Map.
Learning Forte and Piano
Movement with Cards
Once we’ve had the chance to listen along with the piece one time, I talk to my students about forte and piano. I hand students two cards, one yellow and one blue (but you can use any two colors you want). I have them hold up the yellow card and say “forte means loud.” Then we hold up the blue and say “piano means quiet.” Then we start the song and follow along, holding up yellow or blue cards when the music is loud or quiet.
It is a simple but fun activity and the kids eat it up. It is great for a first introduction into forte and piano, or for a review of the terms.
William Tell Overture YouTube Version
To get the full effect of the activity, you really have to see it. The key is to ham it up and make it over the top dramatic. Check out the video below!
William Tell Movement Activity (Almeida)
After we have learned about dynamics, it’s fun to wrap things up with a final fun movement activity. I love Artie Almeida’s parachute activity from Parachutes and Ribbons and Scarves, Oh My!
Blog Posts For More Classical Music and Fun Movement
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Get listening maps to the William Tell Overture and four other classroom classics in this Classroom Classics 2 Listening Map Set.
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