Music can be a real escape. And, the love of music only grows as you age. Which is why having mandatory music classes throughout elementary schools is beneficial, and for so many reasons.
Credit: Michelle Rees
Throughout Ontario, from kindergarten until you reach grade 8, students will have to take mandatory music classes. But where did this stem from? Michelle Rees is a Learning Coordinator for the Arts for the Thames Valley District School Board. She gives the history about music classes.
“There’s research to suggest that it was part of the curriculum in Ontario in the late 1800’s. But of course, it looks very different than today’s music programs.”
By 4th grade, students switch from singing to choosing their own instrument to play. From flutes, to trumpets and even trombone, the range was wide in what children were interested in learning.
So, is it just about picking up the instrument and playing along with the song the teacher chooses? What exactly are the benefits are of having these weekly music classes as a child?
“There’s been multiple studies that have shown that musical experiences in childhood can develop and accelerate brain development, particularly in the areas of language acquisition and reading skills. Every stage of development benefit from exposure to music, from infancy all the way until adulthood.”
Dan Brodbeck is the Coordinator of Music Industry Arts at Fanshawe College, and has been involved in music since he was a child himself. So, what is his perspective on the benefits for children?
“Creativity. You don’t have to be good at an instrument, just like art class, just like physical education. At school, they want everyone to be well rounded, so it’s not all about math and science.”
Combined U of T & @bantingbroncos senior jazz!#TVDSB jazz day PD #tvdsbarts pic.twitter.com/JU9tQqsW0X
— Seth McNall (@mrmcnall) March 5, 2019
Is it necessary to have mandatory music classes throughout elementary schools?
“It comes up every once and a while of ‘Is it necessary to teach?’, Brodbeck says, “yet the same things are asked when it comes to art classes, physical education, but all of these things being taught are outlets, and you need them.”
Credit: Michelle Rees
In previous year, until only a few years ago, students were taught classical pieces. Pieces from hundreds of year ago. But now, instead of children learning older music, some teachers have started to teach pop culture. Michelle Rees says her collages often have many different opinions on this topic, but says she’s all for it.
“I personally believe that anything that engages kids in music is beneficial. Even now, I think about Ariana Grande who has a new song out and the beginning of it is ‘My Favourite Things’ from the Sound of Music. So, for kids to be able to make that connection is a pretty special thing. You just have to take those opportunities to engage kids in what they’re passionate about.”
Music can be an outlet for children, and enhance their learning and health. Their memorization increases, their reading and writing skills intensify. It seems that mandatory music may be around for quite a while.
