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...
Comments
Log in to join the conversation.