Friday, June 17, 2016

Connecting Head and Heart Part III

What is the age of the young musician that is able to connect head and heart?  If you are ever lucky enough to see young Suzuki students performing in a group, (by using the word young I mean age 5 to 10 years of age) you would be able to tell by facial expression and entire body language that these performers have internalized the basic fundamentals of the music and have moved on to expression of the music in which the composer intended.  Their parents and teachers have lovingly taught and encouraged them in the tiniest pedagogical steps so that they may go beyond playing the notes and on to living and creating the music.
Of course, there are many good methods of teaching music to young children.



Here are some basic pedagogical ideas to help build a foundation and stepping stones to playing with heart.
*  Notice mistakes while the young musician is playing but only mention and work on one mistake at a time
*  Maintain consistent practice sessions and focus on everyday instead of length of practice sessions
*  Keep the listening going!  Remember to have classical music playing as well as any other genre you like
*  Music is infectious in a wonderful way!  Parents should try to play instruments to set a good example