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Philosophy of Music Education - Continued...

         Music is usually associated with art and categorized as so. One can also argue, however, that music is a science involving very complex mathematics. Sound is produced in the form of waves and frequencies, all of which follow very concrete formulas, as proven by Pythagorus. It can also be broken down into very simple mathematics, in the form of rhythms and meters. The concept of musical divisions is a great way to introduce young children to the basic components of division and fractions.  Music is also history. Many things can be learned from songs because, in ancient times, music was the only way to preserve stories and happenings of the times. This is a very good way to teach young children about history, as it is well known that elementary students tend to have very short attention spans. Teaching history through music is much more engaging than learning from a book or in a seminar style. Music can be related to these subjects very easily and, as students continue to learn, they will be able to relate it to other subjects in less obvious ways. For example: Music and forestry can be related once students realize the reason the need ear protection is the high frequency sounds produced by the chain saw they use. Knowledge of music has many advantages in the non-music applications of school, obvious or not so.

            Musical talents are sometimes hidden as well. Music teachers must be ready to adapt to a variety of students. Just because a student finds little interest in Mozart or plays a non-traditional instrument doesn’t mean they are not talented. The ability for students to play and perform in a punk rock band can open up just as many opportunities as a clarinetist playing in a concert band. The students both will have the opportunity to learn about their instrument and the history behind it and the music they play with it. It is important for a teacher to encourage musical groups outside of the standard band and choir. If there are a lot of percussion students, maybe a percussion group could be arranged where students are given the opportunity to experiment with instruments they wouldn’t normally use in band. The possibilities really are endless. As a teacher, one should strive to include everyone in some way, shape, or form, no matter how non-traditional the instrument of choice is. These instruments have a different influence on elementary students, however, as they have very limited access and knowledge of such. In this instance, it is the music instructor’s responsibility to provide examples, knowledge, and access to these strange and rarely heard of instruments. Elementary students are often fascinated by oddities such as these, helping to improve classroom attention and overall engagement, simply by teaching something interesting.

Many cultures around the world use instruments very different from the standard instruments we see in our society. It is important for students to be exposed to the music of the world so as to gain a better understanding of what music is to people throughout. This not only gives students a better understanding of music, but a better understanding of the world in general. Music is almost a universal language in the sense that once one understands it, it is easy to communicate with people all over the world. Simply being exposed to these different cultures will also help students learn about our cultures music by comparing it with others. The more music a student is exposed to, the more understanding and appreciation they will gain and the more they will grow as musicians.

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