Emily Griggs is a Primary School teacher from Greater London. In this series of resources, Emily shares how she introduces composition to her pupils. 

Approaching composition with children can sometimes feel like an insurmountable challenge, with the works of famous composers setting an intangible precedent for composition. A far more accessible way to approach composition is through non-musical starting points, including, but not limited to, stories, poems, paintings, or games. These approaches provide a platform for creativity, allowing the children to explore sounds and experiment with the interrelated dimensions of music, or musical elements.

Whilst this approach is more accessible, it is of course essential that the children have some understanding of the musical elements, which can be explored through a variety of games and activities. It is also important to remember that the creative process should not be rushed. To create a high-quality piece of music, pupils need time to develop and practise their ideas, moving from improvisation to composition. In the film below, Emily explores an approachable and practical way to introduce composition in the classroom using aleatoric music, music shaped by chance or choice.

Last modified: Monday, 20 April 2026, 10:57 AM