Two years ago, we partnered with Luton-based Khayaal Theatre Company to create new songs for Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. Since then, we’ve seen something really encouraging: these songs are helping more Muslim pupils feel represented in their music lessons and take part in class singing with confidence and joy.
The songs are:
- Feast and fast - a song telling the story of a day of fasting by children and young people during the month of Ramadan.
- Guests of God, inspired by traditional Arabic music that shares how the Prophet Muhammad prepared spiritually for Ramadan.
- Waiting for the crescent moon - sweet tune that follows a child’s excitement as Eid al Fitr approaches.
How it started
It all began at the Music and Drama Education Expo in February 2024, when we met teachers from Hillary Primary in Walsall. They told us how their pupils were responding to the Year 5 Sing Up Music unit on Madina tun Nabi – a catchy, uplifting song that had sparked new levels of engagement among Muslim children in their school.
We asked whether they’d be willing to try out our new Khayaal Theatre songs. They agreed, and the feedback was immediate and positive.
Glowing reviews from Hillary pupils
Year 2 pupils trying Feast and fast told us:
- "I liked that there’s a song about Ramadan so that people can learn about Ramadan." – Idris
- "Ramadan is my favourite time and it’s special to me. The song makes me feel happy and excited." – Raima
- "It is the first time I’ve sung about Ramadan and I liked it." – Amaya
Year 4 teacher Rajan Sandal reported that Guests of God led to thoughtful conversations about Rajab and Sha'ban – the two preparatory months leading up to Ramadan. The children were curious, asking questions, and one pupil later told him he planned to listen to the songs at home.
Why this matters
Representation in the classroom makes a difference. Many children take part in celebrations like Christmas every year at school, but not all pupils see their own cultural or religious festivals reflected in the curriculum. Music can help foster a sense of belonging.
Furthermore, singing songs from a variety of traditions also helps pupils learn about the range of cultures and traditions that exist both in their home country and around the world - regardless of the school’s demographic makeup – fostering a sense of global citizenship.
Try them out
We’d love to hear what happens when you use these songs with your classes. Do they spark conversations? Do your Muslim pupils respond differently? Does it help children understand each other’s traditions in new ways? Let us know what you discover.
Not a Member? Try them for free by registering as a Sing Up Friend.
Looking for more?
Take a look at this playlist
