15+ Musical Story Books | The Best Read Aloud Videos and Activities

Originally published February 21, 2024
Latest Update April 7, 2026

Perfect for elementary teachers and substitutes, this collection of read-aloud videos of musical story books will engage and delight. Extend the learning with my BONUS follow-up activities for a complete lesson plan! Ready to teach!

Use the searchable musical elements, subject integrations, and grade levels for pre-school and elementary students. (below)

Musical Story Books Read Aloud Videos and Activities Cover Image

How is literature used in an elementary music classroom?

Some teachers purposefully focus on reinforcing both reading and music skills during lessons that integrate children’s literature, while others focus on reinforcing music concepts or skills. 

Brown, Holly Ann, “Children’s Literature in the Elementary General Music Classroom” (2019). Theses and Dissertations. 2162. https://dc.uwm.edu/etd/2162

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🟢 Creative OPTIONS for Read-Aloud Videos of Musical Story Books

Read-Aloud videos of musical story books are a great option when you need a screen presentation. Getting the hard-copy book is the perfect intimate setting to read and do your own interpretation, sound effects, and discussion.

  • Use literature to teach and reinforce specific music concepts (tempo, dynamics, tone color, etc.)
  • Use books to provide support for pre-reading, reading, and vocabulary exploration.
  • Great for one-off lesson needs or sub plans
  • Use related musical games/activities for follow-up interactive learning
  • Class starter, ender, or transition in the class flow provides routine and structure.
Continue reading “15+ Musical Story Books | The Best Read Aloud Videos and Activities”

How to Use Fairy Tales in the Music Classroom

Fairy tales are great tools for vocal, instrumental, and movement exploration for all students in the music classroom. From simple storytelling to a story with sound effects to a grand production, fairy tales are engaging and capture the imagination.

Start with the story, add body percussion, vocal sound effects, and then transfer to instruments. See the tables below as examples.

Fairy Tales lesson plans, ideas, and uses in the music classroom.
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The Mitten

Many of us are familiar with the Jan Brett book, but this 
Ukrainian folk tale has a very interesting history! Here are songs, lesson plans, and resources for the beautiful story.
Continue reading “The Mitten”

The Best Children’s Literature for the Music Classroom

A list of books from newly published to classics for the music classroom with links, music connections, activities, and lesson plans!

If you are looking for captivating books that seamlessly blend literature and music in your classroom, look no further! This e-x-p-a-n-d-i-n-g list of recommended books will provide musical connections information and valuable lesson plan ideas.

Whether you’re seeking to expand your library or searching for fresh ideas to enrich your music curriculum, find great ways to integrate literature into your music curriculum.

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Continue reading “The Best Children’s Literature for the Music Classroom”