Response to “The Elements of Music”
The article “Elements of Music” by Rose and Countryman challenges the traditional ways we think about music in a classroom setting, and explores the learning possibilities through student engagement and personal reflection. I find this article rather compelling, as Rose and Countryman discuss the power of music and adolescents’ rather complex interpretations of music, that do not necessarily involve focusing on the mathematics of music, or, “the elements’”. I found it quite interesting to discover that students were able to use social thinking and create interpersonal connections through music. This truly shows the emotional understanding adolescents have for music, and the importance that the education system recognizes the value of this.
Keywords: Music, classroom, students.
As a classical trained vocalist and pianist, this article definitely showed me a new perspective on the teaching methods of music, and the importance that adolescents’ passion for music is not lost through “the elements” or theoretical interpretations. I find that as musicians, sometimes we can diminish this innate connection to music and focus mostly on the framework of the piece. However, this article proves the importance of maintaining these emotional connections that are made through music, and are just as vital as the technicalities of a piece. I was initially conflicted about the idea of using pop music and rap examples in the classroom, however, this article shows that these different musical interpretations are still valid, and can be used as a form of self-expression in adolescents.
Why has this essential part of musical learning been neglected in the classroom? Rose and Countryman challenge this question, and explore the idea that perhaps breaking this social norm will allow students to become more engaged and passionate about the study of music. I would love to ask Rose and Countryman their opinions on activities that can be used to create a more open atmosphere in the classroom, and how to establish a level of comfort that can help students be more open with their own self expression through music. I think that the authors bring up some very intriguing points about why studying music with a less technical and more emotional approach can actually create a richer learning experience for students. “The Elements of Music” most definitely has challenged my own perspective on what it means to study music, and has opened my eyes to the importance of our own unique interpretations of music.
References
Rose, Countryman (2013). http://act.maydaygroup.org/articles/RoseCountryman12_3.pdf
