What's So Important About Music Education?

Did you know that musical activity stimulates the brain like nothing else we do?

Research has found that when we are involved in musical activity the entire brain is stimulated. All the areas we use to think and reason, all the areas we use in language and mathematical understanding, the areas that control our emotions and those which help us with social interaction and physical coordination. It is like the brain is built to receive music.

Not only does this mean that we are all musical, but that being involved in music can bring forward development in every area. You could almost conclude that we actually need music in order to develop effectively.

Research has shown that children who take part in regular musical activity excel amongst their peers. Scientific studies show that music education; develops language and reading skills, boosts our general cognitive development or thinking skills, helps us with reasoning, empowers our creativity and originality, expands memory, aids motor development and coordination, improves social skills, reduces stress and increases the quality of our lives.

It is never too early to introduce music to your child. Babies love singing and rhymes. In order to learn language babies are concerned primarily with the pitch and melody of speech. Singing helps them latch on to this more easily. As soon as they are able they will start to move rhythmically to the beat. Try to build on this by dancing, tapping, clapping or rocking. A good concept of beat helps with coordination and makes them quicker and more able learners.

As they get older and start to move, music can become more creative and social skills are developed as they join others for dancing, singing and playing percussion instruments. Movement is a key to learning here. Experiencing the beat with their whole bodies helps them develop a thorough understanding of it.

Preschoolers benefit from developing singing skills further. Everyone can learn to sing in tune. Singing without an accompaniment is best. Children need to hear an uncluttered melody line in order to learn good pitch. At this age they can start to learn to play specific rhythms and take their part in little ensembles.

Joining a music group is a good way to encourage your young child with music. The best programmes do not seek to make your child conform to specific ways of doing things, they encourage exploration and experimentation, important elements of early childhood education. Smaller groups are best as they allow young children to develop socially in a secure environment. Familiar songs, activities and faces help keep their interest and make them enthusiastic about returning.

Once they are school age music education can begin to become and little more formal. Up to the age of 6 or 7 we still recommend small group lessons which focus on the fun elements of music whilst strengthening foundational skills.

If you have any questions about the best way forward for your child please do not hesitate to contact us. www.musikate.co.uk

Kate Pavey BA (Hons) PGCE, Licensed KindermusikEducator