Originally published April 24, 2024
Latest Update May 3, 2026
Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month elementary music activities with a diverse lineup of musicians, folk songs, and interactive games. This post is a “one-stop shop” for busy music educators, featuring everything from Yo-Yo Ma’s classical brilliance to Mista Cookie Jar’s kid-friendly hip-hop.
Use the playlist below to navigate through regional folk songs, plus trivia that will keep your students guessing and engaged all month long. Jump straight to the Arirang Orff Arrangement & Pronunciation Guide.

What is AAPI Heritage Month?
According to Britannica, “Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is a monthlong commemoration of the history and achievements of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in the United States.”
Let’s celebrate the contributions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander musicians!