How to use this Resource
Teaching music in the classroom can feel daunting, which is why these resources are designed to be flexible and easy to integrate. Use them in whatever way works best for you and your students.
In-Person Event
On Wednesday 1 July at LSO St Luke’s, Rachel Leach will be leading a session helping you to use these digital resources in the classroom. This workshop will assist you with the composing and listening activities that can be adapted for all key stages alongside a stunning new performance of the full work.
What’s Included
Exploring the Music
Each movement of The Planets has its own page. On each page you’ll find:
- A short classroom video to kick off the lesson
- A full performance of the movement by the London Symphony Orchestra
- A lesson plan
- A quiz and word search
These resources focus on helping students understand and experience the music, not just listen to it. There is also an accompanying lesson plan that takes you through the activities step by step, making it simple to structure your time.
Bonus Materials
In addition to the movement-by-movement resources, you’ll also find:
- Get to know a conductor with Sir Antonio Pappano
- Meet astronaut Tim Peake
To Get Started
You’ll need:
- Screen (to play video)
- Unpitched percussion instruments
- Space for movement
- Tuned percussion (optional)
How to Use Everything Together
These materials are meant to support you however you choose to bring The Planets into your classroom. You can:
- Follow the full sequence from Holst → each planet → bonus videos
- Pick and choose the parts that fit your lesson
- Build cross‑curricular links with science, storytelling, and creative music‑making
Get Started
Content written and presented by Rachel Leach for LSO Discovery 2026.
