Instrumental Activity Book - Engine Engine Number Nine

"Engine Engine Number Nine" is a lively piece of music that offers a variety of instrumental activities perfect for engaging young learners in the fundamentals of rhythm and melody. The song itself is a catchy tune set to the backdrop of a train running along the London line, with playful lyrics that ponder the refund policy in the event of a derailment. The activities begin with simple tasks such as singing and tapping the pulse of the song, which is the steady beat that underpins the music. As students become more confident, they move on to tapping and singing the rhythm, which is the pattern of long and short sounds that fit over the pulse.

Further activities invite students to delve deeper into the musical texture. They are encouraged to think and tap the rhythm, and then to play it on instruments, fostering a connection between cognitive understanding and physical execution. Some exercises involve splitting the class, with half focusing on maintaining the pulse while the other half handles the rhythm, sometimes using 'thinking voices' to internalise the beat. More advanced activities include playing the pulse and rhythm on tuned instruments using the notes C, E, and G, and even playing the melody. Students have the opportunity to create their own rhythmic or melodic ostinatos—a repetitive musical phrase—to accompany the song, thus exploring composition and creative expression. These activities not only make music theory tangible but also enhance coordination and listening skills.