Richard Gill believes singing is the best way to acquire a complete musical education.

Using the voice as a way of learning music seems such a logical thing to do that one wonders why it needs any sort of defence or advocacy. However, there is a view in the minds of some children, and shared by some parents and teachers, that singing at school as part of a music class does not constitute a proper music lesson. A proper music lesson only takes place when one attends an instrumental class such as a piano lesson. Perhaps time will see this disconnection being corrected, as singing makes a very special re-entry into the school curriculum nationally.

In some establishments, singing has always been a part of the fabric of school life. One school in Melbourne – a boys’ school, Melbourne High – comes to mind immediately. I have had the great pleasure to be in the school when the boys have sung several songs including music from the Baroque, folk songs from diverse cultures and a variety of contemporary songs. The singing was accurate, intense, and it was performed with incredible commitment.

While the physical benefits to be derived from good...