Hooktheory in the Classroom: Engaging Students Through Popular Music and Interactive Tools
Thursday, January 22, 2026
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
Description
Looking for new ways to connect music theory with your students' musical interests? This session explores free, interactive resources from Hooktheory that bring theory and ear training to life through popular music. Discover how our database of over 50,000 analyzed songs can support learning in harmony, form, and aural skills. We will also explore how to connect music theory with creative activities in beat making and music production. All tools shared in this session are free and tested in real classroom settings.
Speakers
Greg Cerveny
Learning Objective 1
Participants will learn how to use Hooktheory’s free song database and analysis tools to teach music theory through popular music.
Learning Objective 2
Participants will explore classroom uses for chord guessing games and aural skills challenges.
Learning Objective 3
Participants will identify strategies for connecting music theory concepts to creative student projects such as beat making, arranging, and music production using accessible online tools.
Session Level
Elementary, Middle School/Junior High, High School, Collegiate