Dr. Emily AronoffLooking to infuse your Chanukah celebration with fun and music?
This “Chanukah Name That Tune” game is the perfect addition to your festivities, offering an engaging way for all ages to connect with Jewish melodies.
Why Play "Chanukah Name That Tune"?
This game brings together family and friends to enjoy the rich tapestry of Jewish music. It’s an excellent activity for Chanukah parties, encouraging participation from everyone, regardless of musical background.
How to Play
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Preparation:
- Download and print the game board: Download Game Board.
- Curate a playlist of Chanukah songs. You can use our 10 Chanukah Songs for Kiddos or Chanukah Stars (for a more advanced audience) as a starting point or create your own.
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Gameplay:
- Play a 15-30 second snippet of each song.
- Participants write down their guesses, identifying the song title, artist, or associated holiday theme. Play up the ‘Interesting Relevant Facts’ as ‘brownie points’ and see how creatively your people can make connections!
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Scoring:
- Award points for each correct answer. Make sure you communicate with each other about what system you’ll use.
- Consider bonus points for additional information, such as the song’s origin or its significance in Jewish culture.
Enhance the Experience
- Personalized Playlists: Encourage participants to create playlists for each other around specific themes, adding a personal touch to the game.
- Inclusivity: Provide a “song bank” list to assist those less familiar with Chanukah songs, making the game accessible and enjoyable for all.
Benefits of the Game
- Cultural Exposure: Experience a variety of musical styles within Jewish culture.
- Active Engagement: Enhance listening and critical thinking skills.
- Inclusivity: Encourage participation from all, regardless of musical background.
Bridge Generational Gaps with Music
Incorporating “Chanukah Name That Tune” into your celebration fosters intergenerational connections and creates lasting memories. It’s a joyful way to deepen appreciation for Jewish music and heritage.
Name that tune is delightful because it sparks connections- contemporary and nostalgic.
It is a popular game on cruise ships and classrooms alike – and now it can be a tool in your kit, too. I use the game as a strategic engagement tool. I hope these ideas inspire you to find ways to integrate music across your curriculum and explore how music can help you teach any topic.
Feel free to share your experiences and any unique variations of the game you’ve created. Wishing you a harmonious and enlightening Chanukah!
