The NPR blog deceptive cadence recently posed the question “How Do You Introduce Classical Music To Kids?” A great discussion ensued and several responses are now organized around emerging themes on a follow up post.
Oddly, while deceptive cadence invited some fabulous artists to contribute to the conversation on their blog (and those invited shared wonderful approaches to connecting young people in performance settings), no K-12 public school music educators were invited to provide their perspective.
Since the majority of K-12 music educators introduce young people to classical music on a regular basis and specialize in faciltiating such musical engagement, why not add our voices to the conversation?
How do you introduce classical music to young people?
I wonder if any professional music educators were asked? The best way to get students interested in any kind of music is to make the process fun and engaging. We’ve developed an online curriculum that suits savvy learners of all ages at http://www.discoverlearnandplay.com. No gimmicks, not a short-cut, just great information packaged and delivered in a way that today’s’ learners have come to expect. It’s concepts that matter – regardless of the style one wants to play or introduce. The same basic musical information that a violinist needs to know is just as important to a rock bassist or a jazz saxophonist.
We (as music educators) need to adapt and find markets (yes markets) outside of academia if we want the profession to not only survive, but thrive. Let’s not worry so much about teaching ‘classical’ music – let’s reach everyone interested in learning to play – and make more music makers at every level!
When I taught middle school students, I would start by playing film score music from their favorite movies. We would discuss what made the movie so dramatic, and by listening to scores (which students could relate to) we could transition to other pieces of Romantic classical music, which often sound similar, so that students have a framework. Starting with the “musical eras” is the wrong way IMHO- start with what they can relate to, and develop from there.
-Dan
I have just got home after running a 3 day music camp with 130 students aged 8 to 17. Days full of learning and playing music – yes- classical as well….
Amazing concert to finish- standing room only. Classical music is alive and well!