Thursday, 21 February 2008

What is my method of choice?

In elementary music, there are tons of different methods to choose from. Zoltán Kodály's methods & Carl Orff 's Schulwerk are two classic examples. Another that is a little less-frequently used and sometimes not seen until even college comes from Émile-Jacques Dalcroze. Shinichi Suzuki's methods have grown since World War II, and a big one that's certain to become more influential at Hope with our new music education professor are Edwin Gordon's methods.

Sticking to one method is unhealthy, so my hope is always that a good music teacher synthesizes a variety of methods in the classroom to teach elementary students about music. However, it's natural to gravitate towards a particular method that resonates with you. I think I'm finding mine.

ETM. Education Through Music. Singing and games. Singing games. They're so engaging, but they're fun. They're what I would call truly exuberant. "Sing joyfully!"

I tried my hand at teaching students ETM games for the first time today. I actually had neither song or "choreography" in my methods references, so I had to refresh them with Mr. DeBoer, but thankfully my memory wasn't TOO dusty and after about one lesson, things started to go pretty well.

It's really fascinating to see differences from one class to the next. Some catch on so fast and get it almost instantly. Others need more practice. But, that's music. And that's what makes it so cool.

But the thing about these ETM games was... every set of students were collectively engaged. Once they started to get the hang of what to do, they got into it. Fast. And they wanted to keep doing it. It's fun.

And isn't that what music should be?

I think I believe in ETM.

InterVarsity's larger group gathering was just plain sweet tonight. I'm not sure what it was, but I sensed something bigger tonight than just Ross, Nik, and I simply singing in front of our friends. We prayed that the Holy Spirit would be at work and that it wouldn't be us. Was that what I noticed? I know one thing's for sure... the old school music definitely can still reach people. I love songs like "Better is One Day" and "Beautiful One" and all, but it was great doing our own take on songs like "Be Thou My Vision" and "Be Still My Soul." Mmm...

Be still, my soul... and be my vision, O Lord of my heart.