“The Day the Music Died” refers to the tragic event that killed three iconic musicians – Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and “The Big Bopper.” As upper elementary teachers, it is important to educate and engage our students in understanding and appreciating the contributions of these legends to the music industry. This blog post provides six The Day the Music Died activities to incorporate into your lesson plans.
Be sure to get the handout. It includes the printables you need to complete some of the activities.
The Day the Music Died Activities
Activity #1: Exploring the Musicians’ Legacy
To start, provide students with the article found in the “Student Packet” that discusses the lives and deaths of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and “The Big Bopper.” Have students read the article and analyze the chart showcasing their most famous songs, chart positions, and release dates.
After reading, have students answer the comprehension questions.
This activity allows students to gain a deeper understanding of the musicians’ accomplishments and the impact they had on the music industry.
Activity #2: Exploring YouTube Videos
These videos provide historical context and personal accounts of the event that led to the death of these musicians. Watching one or more of these videos allows students to connect emotionally with the musicians’ stories.
Please watch videos before showing them to students. Some content may not be appropriate for your students.
The Tragic Explanation Of The Day The Music Died [11:38]
The Day the Music Died: Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper [5:51]
Day the Music Died: 50th Anniversary Story [5:20]
American Pie [8:46]
Activity #3: Song Analysis
Divide students into small groups and assign each group one song from the musicians’ catalog of musical recordings. Have them analyze the lyrics, musical elements, and overall themes of the song and then present their findings to the class.
The handout includes a teacher’s guide to nine songs to make this project easy to implement.
Activity #4: Creating a Mural or Collage
Engage students in a hands-on, creative project by inviting them to create a mural or collage featuring images of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and “The Big Bopper.” Provide art supplies such as markers, colored pencils, magazines, and glue. Encourage students to include song titles, symbols, and quotes representing each musician’s contribution to music history. Display the finished artwork in the classroom or a common area.
Buddy Holly:
Symbol: Glasses – Buddy Holly’s iconic thick-framed glasses are a recognizable symbol associated with him.
Quote: “I’m lookin’ for someone to love.” – Lyrics from his song “Someone to Love Me.”
Ritchie Valens:
Symbol: Guitar – Ritchie Valens was known for his guitar skills, and a guitar can represent his musical talent.
Quote: “Come on, let’s go, let’s go, little darlin’. Tell me that you’ll never leave me.” – Lyrics from his song “Come On, Let’s Go.”
“The Big Bopper” (J.P. Richardson):
Symbol: Microphone – As a singer and performer, the microphone can symbolize his stage presence.
Quote: “Oh, baby, you know what I like!” – Lyrics from his song “Chantilly Lace.”
Activity #5: Research Project
Assign students to research and create a mini-biography or timeline of one of the musicians. Have students dive deeper into their background, musical achievements, and influences.
Activity #6: Musical Time Capsule
Have students choose a song from Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, or “The Big Bopper” and create a time capsule containing items representing the song. They can present their time capsules to the class, explaining the significance of each item.
Activity #7: Song “Gone Too Soon”
Have students read the lyrics to the song in the “Student Packet” and answer the discussion questions.
Gone too soon, but their music remains,
Legends of rock, etched in our veins.
Buddy, Ritchie, and Bopper, we hold dear,
Their memory forever, let us revere.
By engaging in these activities, students will develop a deeper appreciation for the musicians who shaped the music industry and left a lasting impact on future generations. They will gain insights into the lives, achievements, and legacies of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and “The Big Bopper.” Through exploring their popular songs, comprehension of historical events, and creating meaningful artwork, students will connect with the emotions, themes, and messages conveyed through the music.
As educators, we honor the memory of these musicians by sharing their stories and music with our students. Through these The Day the Music Died Activities, we can ensure that their impact is not forgotten but rather cherished and passed on to future generations.
Together, let us keep the spirit of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and “The Big Bopper” alive and their music playing in the hearts of our students.
