Critical Listening (Musical Detective) — Sample Activity

Put on your detective hats! In these fun listening tasks, children become Music Detectives. First, they listen carefully to a piece of music. Then – oh no! – a robber sneaks in and steals an instrument!

When the music plays again, children must use their ears to spot which instrument is missing.

Music Tip: Listen for each instrument’s sound and role – does it play the tune, the beat, or a background part?

Teacher Tip: Pause after each version to talk about what the children heard – it builds great listening and discussion skills!