In a digital age dominated by fleeting trends, the enduring significance and presence of hymns often gets overlooked. However, delving into their study can unveil a treasure trove of benefits for modern kids. I personally have my homeschool choirs sing a hymn (either a modern arrangement, a basic version, or a cappella) each semester because I understand the value and richness of doing so. So let's explore why hymn study is not just relevant but essential in today's society, especially for our kids.
Cultural and Historical Insight
Hymns are not mere melodies; they're windows into the past, offering insights into the cultural and religious landscapes of their time. From the soul-stirring "Amazing Grace" to the steadfast "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God," each hymn encapsulates a story of faith, resilience, and human experience. By studying hymns and the context in which they were written, children gain a deeper appreciation for history and the values that have shaped societies through the ages.
Musical Enrichment
In a world saturated with synthesized sounds, hymns provide a refreshing oasis of musical richness and simplicity. Their intricate harmonies, diverse vocal styles, and timeless melodies offer invaluable lessons in music theory as well as challenges to sing (depending on the singer and the specific hymn). Studying hymns challenges young musicians, enhancing their skills as performers and composers while expanding the options their musical ear understands and broadening their musical horizons.
Spiritual and Emotional Nourishment
Hymns possess a unique ability to touch hearts and uplift spirits. Through expressions of joy, sorrow, gratitude, or hope, hymns offer a conduit for exploring complex emotions and grappling with life's uncertainties. In an era marked by rapid change and technological distractions, studying hymns provides a grounding force, nurturing children's spiritual and emotional well-being when they are given the opportunity to understand and take in the musical and textual richness.
Language and Literacy Enhancement
The lyrical beauty of hymns makes them a potent tool for language and literacy development. Analyzing their poetic structure, vocabulary, and symbolism strengthens reading comprehension, expands vocabulary, and hones critical thinking skills. Memorizing hymn verses enhances memory retention and cognitive function, offering a holistic approach to language learning.
Community and Tradition
Hymn-singing has long been a communal practice, fostering a sense of unity and belonging among participants. By engaging with hymns, children connect with a tradition that spans generations and transcends cultural boundaries. Whether in church, school, home or community settings, hymn study strengthens bonds with others and instills a sense of shared heritage and connection together.
Studying of hymns offers a wealth of benefits for modern kids, from cultural enrichment and musical education to spiritual growth and community engagement. By embracing these timeless treasures, children can enrich their lives and connect with the enduring wisdom of the past. Let's ensure that hymn study remains a vital part of our educational and cultural landscape, empowering future generations to sing their praises with passion and purpose! Check out the "A Hymn a Month" freebie that covers a whole month's worth of different ways your family can study one hymn. Further resources for specific hymn studies will be available soon in the Classical Collective Membership -- sign up to be notified when it goes live!
In the realm of homeschooling, there’s a growing appreciation for classical education, a model that emphasizes the pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty through a structured curriculum (more on classical education here). At the heart of this educational philosophy underlies the profound impact and thread of music education. Let's explore the practical benefits of incorporating music into classical homeschooling and education.
- Cognitive Development: Music's Impact on Learning Music education is integral to classical homeschooling for its role in enhancing cognitive abilities. From improving memory and attention span to sharpening auditory discrimination skills, studying music provides a well-rounded cognitive workout, supporting critical thinking and analytical skills as well as literacy and poetic understanding especially in the early years. Dr. John Feierabend says this is why learning to create music, not just learning about music, is so important especially in ages birth-age 8. Gaining knowledge about music, like memorizing Bach's birth year or mnemonic devices for note names, primarily utilizes one's linguistic intelligence. While this information is certainly useful, it doesn't necessarily lead to a deep understanding of music. True musical intelligence involves the development of neural pathways for musical thinking early in life. This foundational understanding is crucial for later learning to have genuine musical significance. Once our minds establish pathways for understanding, it becomes difficult to alter our perception. Individuals who immerse themselves in music, learning songs and moving artfully to the steady beat, are better positioned to grasp musical notation and instrument playing later. Learning an instrument initially by ear, and then transitioning to reading notation, effectively enhances both skills. On the other hand, those who exclusively learn through notation without prior musical readiness may struggle to develop ear-playing abilities because they learned from a mathematical/linguistic lens first.
- Cultural Literacy: Embracing Musical Traditions Classical homeschooling values cultural literacy and historical understanding. Through exploring a wide variety of musical traditions, students gain insights into different cultures and time periods as well as various life experiences and perspectives. As Charlotte Mason said, "The child should be made familiar with and should be made to appreciate good music." This exposure enriches their educational journey and broadens their horizons.
- Emotional Intelligence: Music as a Tool for Growth Music plays a vital role in developing emotional intelligence within classical homeschooling. By engaging musically, students learn to recognize and manage their emotions. They learn and remember through stories set to music what they may not as easily otherwise. And instrumental music without words has a key role to play as well. As Charlotte Mason believed, "Music is one of the most forcible instruments for refining the feelings." This aspect of education fosters empathy, social-emotional growth, and self-awareness.
- Discipline and Perseverance: Building Habits through Music Learning to play a musical instrument requires discipline and perseverance, values cherished by Charlotte Mason homeschoolers. Through regular practice and overcoming challenges, students develop habits of diligence and self-mastery that extend beyond music into all areas of their lives.
- Creative Expression: Nurturing Individuality through Music In Charlotte Mason classical homeschooling, students are encouraged to express their creativity in learning. Music provides a platform for this expression, allowing students to compose, improvise, and interpret music in unique ways. By embracing their musical instincts, students become active participants in their artistic development.
- Community and Collaboration: Music's Role in Connection Music fosters community and collaboration, whether a child is singing with a group of people, learning turn-taking while playing instruments, or listening as a part of an audience to a collective performance. Students bond over their shared love of music. This sense of camaraderie strengthens relationships and promotes cooperation among peers.
In classical homeschooling, music education plays a pivotal role in enriching the educational experience. From cognitive development to emotional intelligence, music offers practical benefits and meaningful engagement with the world around them both present and past. By integrating music into the curriculum, educators empower students to excel academically and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the arts. As Charlotte Mason believed, "The musical education of the child should be begun early; that is, the child should have begun to play and sing almost as soon as he can speak." Let us embrace the transformative power of music in classical education, guiding children on a journey of discovery and growth.
In the realm of home education, teaching music can feel like a daunting task, especially for moms who may not consider themselves musically inclined. However, with the right approach, any parent can become an effective music teacher for their kids. If you're a mom who feels like her kids are more musically inclined than you are, fear not!
Here are six expert tips to help you navigate the world of music education at home with confidence (from a music teacher mama):
- Embrace Your Role as a Guide: Your musical journey with your children begins by understanding that you don't need to be a virtuoso. Think of yourself as a guide, introducing your children to the world of music, helping them explore different genres and exposing them to new songs, providing support and encouragement and showing them you are learning along the way with them.
- Start with the Basics: Begin by laying a solid foundation in music theory, covering essential elements such as rhythm, melody, and harmony. Engage your children with interactive games, fun songs, and hands-on activities to make learning enjoyable and effective. Don't know where to begin with that? Check out the Classical Collective Membership for resources.
- Make Use of Resources: Leverage the wealth of resources available online to support music education at home. From interactive tutorials and educational apps to lessons and community music groups, there's something for every age and skill level. These resources can enrich your children's learning experience and provide valuable support for you as a parent-teacher.
- Encourage Creativity: Nurture your children's creative expression through music by encouraging them to compose their own songs, experiment with different instruments, and even craft homemade musical instruments from household items. Emphasize the joy of exploration and self-expression, fostering a love for music that goes beyond rote learning.
- Lead by Example: Set a positive example for your children by actively engaging with music in your daily life, showing them you are also a lifelong learner! Listen to a variety of musical genres together, sing and dance, read them songtales, attend live performances, and demonstrate that music is something to be enjoyed and celebrated as a family together.
- Be Patient and Persistent: Above all, remember that learning music is a journey that requires patience and persistence. Celebrate your children's progress, no matter how small, and encourage them to persevere through challenges. By fostering a supportive and nurturing environment, you can inspire a lifelong passion for music in your children.
Teaching music at home can be a rewarding experience for both you and your children, regardless of your musical background. By embracing your role as a guide, starting with the basics, utilizing resources, encouraging creativity, leading by example, and maintaining patience and persistence, you can instill a lifelong love of music in your children and grow your own skill and confidence along the way. So, don't hesitate to start this musical adventure together and discover the joy of making music at home!
When teaching our children (especially in classical education or charlotte mason methods), we often emphasize the importance of exposing them to rich literature from an early age. We recognize the profound impact that books can have on their development, nurturing their imagination, and expanding their worldview. However, just as literature holds a special place in a child's intellectual diet, so too does music play a crucial role in shaping their hearts and minds.
In the words of Charlotte Mason (found in this book), "to introduce children to literature is to install them in a very rich and glorious kingdom." Similarly, introducing children to rich and wholesome songs can open the doors to a world of beauty, inspiration, and cultural richness. Just as we carefully select books that reflect our values and ideals, what's often called living books, we should be mindful of the songs we choose to share with our children.
Children's interaction with music should begin from the earliest moments of their lives. Just as we surround them with books, we can surround them with music that is uplifting, meaningful, has a beautiful melody and accompaniment or a cappella, and enriching. From lullabies sung in the cradle to nursery rhymes and folk songs, every musical encounter shapes a child's understanding of the world around them.
The benefits of exposing children to rich and wholesome songs are manifold. Firstly, music has the power to evoke emotions and stir the soul in ways that words alone cannot. Through songs, children learn about love, joy, sadness, and resilience. They develop empathy and compassion as they empathize with the characters and stories woven into the fabric of each melody.
Singing rich and wholesome songs also cultivates a sense of community and belonging. Whether singing with family members, friends, or classmates, children experience the joy of shared expression and collective harmony. In a world often fragmented by differences and the loneliness of technology, music has the unique ability to unite us across cultural, linguistic, and social divides.
Exposure to a diverse repertoire of songs introduces children to different musical styles, traditions, and cultures. Just as we encourage them to explore the vast expanse of literature, we should encourage them to explore the rich tapestry of musical heritage from around the world. From classical masterpieces to traditional folk tunes, from spirituals to contemporary compositions, each song offers a unique window into the human experience.
In a society where children are bombarded with commercialized and often superficial music geared specifically to children, it is more important than ever to curate a musical environment that nourishes their hearts and minds. As parents and parent-teachers, we have a responsibility to provide children with the tools they need to navigate the world with wisdom, integrity, and compassion. By singing rich and wholesome songs, we can instill in them a love of beauty, a reverence for truth, and a deep appreciation for the realities of humanity.
Just as Charlotte Mason advocated for the importance of introducing children to literature from a young age, so too should we prioritize the introduction of rich and wholesome music into their lives. Music has the power to inspire, uplift, and transform, and by singing together, we can create a more harmonious and compassionate world and thoughtful human beings for generations to come.
Find this helpful but don't know where to start? Stay tuned for some more great training coming down the pipeline! Sign up for updates here.
Music Education in a Shifting Educational Landscape
In recent years, the world has witnessed a significant shift in education models, with more families exploring alternative approaches to education such as homeschooling. As traditional classroom structures evolve, so too must the realm of music education. Many music teachers now find themselves in a unique position to tap into and create opportunities for students engaged in alternative education models where the opportunities may be decreasing in the traditional schooling model. Let's explore the changing landscape of education and discuss how music teachers can adapt to better serve the needs of these students.
The Rise of Alternative Education Models:
The rise of homeschooling, online learning, and other alternative education models has been fueled by various factors. Families are increasingly seeking personalized and flexible approaches that cater to their unique circumstances and preferences. We've seen a compound annual growth rate of 10% since 2016 for homeschooling alone, and this doesn't even include the other models! This shift has opened up new possibilities for students to explore their interests in depth, and music is no exception.
Adapting Music Education:
Music teachers play a crucial role in adapting to this changing educational landscape. Here are some key ideas for tapping into and creating opportunities for students engaged in alternative education models:
- Flexibility in Curriculum: Recognize the diverse needs and schedules of homeschooled, online, and hybrid students. Consider developing flexible music education curricula that can be tailored to individual learning styles and time constraints. This has been a key area of research, growth, and implementation for me over the past 5 years.
- Utilizing Technology: Embrace technology to connect with students in virtual spaces. Offering virtual ensemble experiences and collaborative projects allows students to engage with music from their own time and space constraints.
- Community Involvement: Foster a sense of community among students through online forums, virtual performances, and in-person collaborative events. This not only enhances the social aspect of music education but also provides a platform for students to showcase their talents, allowing them to thrive in a way that their alternative educational opportunities may not afford in other subject areas.
- Adaptive Teaching Methods: Recognize that alternative education students may have varied learning styles and preferences. Explore different teaching methods, incorporating visual aids, interactive activities, and project-based learning to keep students engaged.
- Supporting Parents as Educators: Acknowledge the role of parents in alternative education settings and provide resources to support their efforts. Consider workshops, online resources, and guides that empower parents to facilitate their child's musical journey. This is also a big area for growth in the near future!
A final note:
Bridging the Economic Gap: Address affordability concerns. Make music education accessible by offering cost-effective options, group lessons, or community-based programs. Ensure that financial constraints don't limit a student's access to the world of music. This has been an effort of mine over recent years too, with great success!
Bridging the Economic Gap: Address affordability concerns. Make music education accessible by offering cost-effective options, group lessons, or community-based programs. Ensure that financial constraints don't limit a student's access to the world of music. This has been an effort of mine over recent years too, with great success!
Ultimately, the changing landscape of education brings both challenges and opportunities for music teachers. By adapting teaching methods, embracing technology, and actively creating affordable opportunities, educators can ensure that students in alternative education models receive a rich and fulfilling musical education. As we navigate these changes, the harmonious future of music education lies in our ability to evolve alongside the shifting educational paradigms while bridging the economic gap for all aspiring musicians.
What ways have you changed and evolved what you do to meet this educational shift?
What ways have you changed and evolved what you do to meet this educational shift?
Sight Singing and Ear Training are fundamental skills in music education. Most colleges teach it over the course of a few different classes, and many people view it as skills you can't teach until middle school or later... but I love teaching these skills to students as young as 2nd grade (who are already tuneful, beatful, and artful!) in as little as 5 minutes per day. It can be done well and creatively so that students experience it in a joyful, fun way.
Sight singing is the ability to read and sing a piece of music at first sight without having heard it before. It involves translating the written musical notation into vocal sounds. This ideally is done AFTER having some foundational skills built first, namely ear training skills.
Skills Involved:
- Note Recognition: The ability to identify and sing the correct pitches indicated in the musical score.
- Rhythm Recognition: Being able to interpret and execute the rhythm of a piece accurately.
- Interval Recognition: Recognizing the distance between two pitches, which helps in accurately reproducing melodies.
- Key and Scale Recognition: Understanding the key signature and scale of a piece, which guides the performer on which notes to sing.
- Phrasing and Articulation: Interpreting the musical notation to convey musical expression, including dynamics, tempo, and articulation.
Ear training, also known as aural skills, involves developing the ability to identify and reproduce musical elements solely by hearing them. This includes melody, harmony, rhythm, and timbre. My goal is always to develop the musical ear before the musical eye.
Skills Involved:
- Pitch Recognition: Identifying individual pitches and intervals between them.
- Melodic Dictation: Hearing a melody and writing it down in musical notation.
- Harmonic Analysis: Recognizing and identifying chords and chord progressions in a musical piece.
- Rhythmic Dictation: Hearing a rhythm and notating it accurately.
- Chord Progression Recognition: Identifying the sequence of chords in a piece of music.
- Transcription: Listening to a piece of music and notating it in sheet music form.
Both ear training and sight singing are essential for any musician who wants to perform, compose, or arrange music. It enables musicians to effectively communicate and collaborate with others. Musicians with strong sight singing and ear training skills can adapt to various musical styles and genres. These skills empower musicians to improvise and create their own music. It hones the ability to critically analyze and appreciate music. Both sight singing and ear training are skills that can be developed and honed through consistent practice and training. They are vital components of a well-rounded musical education.
Conversational Solfege is a system of 12 steps that addresses these needs first by ear and then adding the eye and symbols to it to develop a person's musical mind and musical thinking in a playful, creative way!
To learn more about Conversational Solfege, check it out here. And here are the flash cards I use that go with the CS units. I'm happy to chat more about CS as well, it's a passion of mine to use this well-created resource to help develop young musicians.
Conversational Solfege is a system of 12 steps that addresses these needs first by ear and then adding the eye and symbols to it to develop a person's musical mind and musical thinking in a playful, creative way!
To learn more about Conversational Solfege, check it out here. And here are the flash cards I use that go with the CS units. I'm happy to chat more about CS as well, it's a passion of mine to use this well-created resource to help develop young musicians.
Teaching music to toddlers is incredibly beneficial for their overall development.
Here are several reasons why (if you're a parent or a music teacher, read on!):
1. Cognitive Development:
- Enhances Memory and Recall: Learning music involves memorizing patterns, melodies, and lyrics, which helps improve memory skills.
- Develops Problem-Solving Skills: Figuring out rhythms, notes, and melodies encourages analytical thinking and problem-solving.
2. Language Development:
- Expands Vocabulary: Through song lyrics, toddlers are exposed to a wider range of words and phrases.
- Improves Pronunciation: Singing helps with speech development, enunciation, and pronunciation.
- There's research that shows that being able to keep a steady beat actually helps with language development and future reading skills!
3. Motor Skills:
- Fine Motor Skills: Playing instruments like drums, xylophones, or even simple hand clapping exercises fine motor skills.
- Gross Motor Skills: Dancing and moving to music helps with coordination and balance. Crossing midline is very important for future motor planning, which clapping and other movements that are musical can help with (like keeping the beat activities I use with my early childhood classes!).
4. Emotional Expression:
- Encourages Emotional Expression: Music provides an outlet for children to express their feelings, which can be particularly helpful for those who may not have the verbal skills to do so.
- Music can help calm a worried or sad child.
5. Social Skills:
- Promotes Cooperation: Group activities like singing in a choir or playing in an ensemble teach children how to work together towards a common goal. It teaches them how to start together with a group and builds teamwork.
- Encourages Communication: Sharing musical experiences encourages interaction and communication among peers.
6. Mathematical Understanding:
- Introduces Basic Math Concepts: Rhythm and beat introduce foundational mathematical concepts like counting, patterns, and divisions of time.
7. Cultural Appreciation:
- Introduces Diversity: Music exposes toddlers to different cultures, traditions, and musical styles from around the world, fostering cultural appreciation and understanding.
8. Creativity and Imagination:
- Fosters Creativity: Music allows for self-expression and encourages creativity as toddlers experiment with sounds and melodies.
- Stimulates Imagination: Singing and playing with instruments can stimulate imaginative play. Arioso (a type of solo singing I use in my classes) is a great place to show this!).
9. Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem:
- Positive Reinforcement: Learning and performing music in front of an audience can boost a child's confidence and self-esteem. I have seen SO many students grow in this area in my time with them.
10. Stress Reduction and Relaxation:
- Emotional Regulation: Music can have a calming effect, helping toddlers manage stress and anxiety. They can process sadness or learn to wait through songs too.
11. Foundation for Future Learning:
- Prepares for Formal Education: Early exposure to music can provide a strong foundation for future music education and learning other subjects.
12. Enjoyment and Fun:
- Promotes Happiness: Music is inherently enjoyable and brings joy to children's lives.
It's important to note that the benefits of teaching music to toddlers are maximized when it's approached in a fun, age-appropriate, and engaging way. Activities should be adapted to suit their developmental stage and interests, and should never feel like a chore. Ultimately, music offers a holistic approach to early childhood development, nurturing cognitive, emotional, and social skills in an enjoyable and enriching way.
If you're a parent looking to find classes for your toddler or baby, check out my offerings on my website menu above!
