Spooky and Seasonal Ensembles to Enliven Your Studio This Fall

As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets that crisp edge, there’s a certain magic that creeps into our studios. Fall brings with it a perfect opportunity to introduce some new, exciting, and atmospheric music that will captivate your students and keep them engaged as we transition into the cooler months.

This season, I’ve been focusing on a few favorite pieces that not only fit the autumnal mood but also offer flexibility for different skill levels in your studio. Whether you’re looking to add a little spookiness to your lessons or just want to embrace the beauty of the season, I think you’ll love these as much as I do.

Creepy Song That Kids Love to Sing and Play! 

1. Have You Seen the Ghost of John?

This chilling and captivating piece from Appalachia is one of my top picks for fall. Have You Seen the Ghost of John? is a traditional song that’s been passed down through generations, and it never fails to give students a delightful shiver.

What makes this piece even more fun is turning it into a round. If your students are comfortable singing, encourage them to try it out—just make sure to pitch the song so their lowest note is middle C or higher. The result is hauntingly beautiful, and students love the challenge of keeping their part in a round.

And if you’re working with multiple students, the piano ensemble version is a great way to bring everyone together.

Liven up Your Fall with this Classical Tune from Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons"

2. Autumn from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons

Vivaldi’s Autumn is a timeless classic that perfectly captures the essence of the season. This innovative arrangement offers flexibility whether you’re teaching it as a solo, duet, or even a trio.

One of the things I love most about this arrangement is how it can be tailored to fit your students’ needs. Whether they’re just beginning or a bit more advanced, this piece allows them to explore the rich, evocative sounds of autumn in a way that feels both accessible and inspiring.

The ensemble nature of this piece is a fantastic way to build a sense of accomplishment and community among your students. Plus, with sample pages and audio available, you can easily preview it before adding it to your repertoire.

Easy tune that kids know, especially for pre-reading students

3. Autumn Leaves are Falling Down

For your littlest learners, Autumn Leaves are Falling Down is a delightful pre-reading song that brings the beauty of fall right to their fingertips. Based on the familiar tune of London Bridge, this piece is perfect for kids who are just starting out and learning their way around the white keys.

The simplicity of this piece doesn’t take away from its educational value. Students love the familiar melody, and it’s a wonderful way to reinforce their understanding of high and low notes, as well as up and down movements on the keyboard.

This piece is designed to engage beginners while giving them a sense of achievement, making it a perfect addition to your fall lesson plans.

Cute song that tells a story of pumpkins trying to escape the cook! 

4. Check out “5 Fat Pumpkins are We!”

Flexible Ensemble: This piece can be adapted to suit different skill levels, making it ideal for mixed-ability groups. Whether you have beginners or more advanced students, everyone can join in the fun.

Engaging Lyrics: The catchy and playful lyrics—“5 fat pumpkins are we, we sat all night by the tree...”—are sure to captivate young learners, enhancing their connection to the music.

Not Scary: Some kids don't enjoy scary music, and this tune is perfect for those who want Halloween fun without the fright. Plus, it's appropriate all the way through Thanksgiving and the autumn season.

Creative Collaboration: Encourage teamwork and musical expression as your students work together in this ensemble setting. It’s a wonderful way to build confidence and camaraderie among your students.

"5 Fat Pumpkins" is suitable for recitals, group lessons, or seasonal performances, and it’s a great opportunity to reinforce students' rhythm, coordination, and listening skills.

Bring the spirit of fall into your studio with "5 Fat Pumpkins" and watch your students shine together!

These crafty turkeys flew into a tree to escape becoming Thanksgiving dinner!

5. Another Fall Option: 5 Fat Turkeys!

Looking for a fun and flexible piece to add to your studio’s fall repertoire? "5 Fat Turkeys" might be just what you need!

This delightful ensemble is perfect for mixed-ability groups, allowing you to adapt the music to suit different skill levels. Whether you're working with beginners or more advanced students, "5 Fat Turkeys" offers a chance for everyone to join in the fun.

Not Halloween: sometimes the timing isn't right for Halloween music. Or, families choose to not celebrate Halloween. 5 Fat Turkeys is a great celebration of fall and Thanksgiving!

The playful lyrics—5 fat turkeys are we, we slept all night in a tree—are sure to capture the imagination of young learners. And because it’s not tied to Halloween, it’s a wonderful option for those who prefer to focus on the broader themes of fall and Thanksgiving.

This piece isn’t just fun; it’s also a great way to foster teamwork and musical expression. As students collaborate on this ensemble, they’ll build confidence, improve their rhythm and coordination, and enhance their listening skills.

"5 Fat Turkeys" is ideal for recitals, group lessons, or any seasonal performance where you want to celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving. Bring this festive piece into your studio and watch your students shine!

I hope you enjoy the fall season as much as I do. Crisp temperatures, beautiful autumn leaves, pumpkin spice lattes, and scrumptious foods. Include music in your celebration with these easy and fun piano ensembles.

Bringing It All Together

These pieces are just a glimpse into the possibilities that fall music can bring to your studio. Whether you’re leaning into the spooky spirit with Ghost of John, exploring the grandeur of Vivaldi’s Autumn, or delighting in the simplicity of Autumn Leaves are Falling Down, there’s something here for every student.