Learning and Engagement Resources
Alongside many of our projects, the International Festival provides in-depth resources to support further learning in the classroom, at home, or in the community. Please find below all our current resources for Primary and Secondary teaching.
If you have any questions or would like further to discuss resources further, please email learn@eif.co.uk
Primary Schools
Play On: Stages
A resource that supports our Play On: Stages project which sees the International Festival build outdoor stages in the playgrounds of primary schools in Edinburgh. This resource includes a video introducing pupils to the International Festival, a Teachers’ Resource and introductions to the artforms we present as a Festival, all useful to schools with or without a stage.
Beethoven’s Music & Moods – a classical music resource
Created to mark Beethoven’s 250th birthday and the Scottish Chamber Orchestra’s performance of his Piano Concerto No 2 as part of My Light Shines On in August 2020, this resource explores the composer’s work through video resources and includes listening, drawing and composing exercises for the classroom, as well as support for teachers and introductions to musicians of the orchestra.
Holst’s The Planets – a classical music resource
Created for the 2018 Virgin Money Schools Concert, this resource explores Holst’s famous composition in celebration of the planets and includes videos exploring the music and science around Mars, the Bringer of War and Uranus, the Magician.
Berlioz and Dukas – a classical music resource
Created for the 2019 Virgin Money Schools Concert, this resource explores the work of composers Berlioz and Dukas, the latter of which composed the very famous piece The Sorcerer’s Apprentice. Plenty of video support including introductions to viola and clarinet, and a tour of Edinburgh’s magical past.
Five Telegrams
In support of the 2018 Aberdeen Standard Investments Opening Event: Five Telegrams, you can down our full teaching resource here. Supported by 14-18 NOW, this resource provides insight into our schools’ engagement project, interviews with the artists involved in the creation of the Opening Event, and further activities for in the classroom.
Secondary Schools
Digital Direction
A new online resource to support Higher and Advanced Higher Drama connecting students with theatre practitioners via video interviews. Professionals provide insight into their practice and how they have adapted to the changes closing theatres has brought about.
Digital Composers
An online resource to support Higher and Advanced Higher Music students, with a particular focus on the composition element of the qualification. Professional composers share with our host Lucy Drever about their careers, inspirations and some tips on how to go about composing music.