Musicians' ability to refine their physical movements directly affects their ability to communicate musically with an audience. A focus on the body is thus an important element of music instruction. The Feldenkrais Method (FM) is a method of somatic education that focuses on teaching the body to move in new ways and with greater efficiency and…

In times of difficulty, it is easy to see what many policymakers value. It would seem that many of them view the arts as a noncrucial element of a child's school curriculum. They want to cut music because they do not value music for its own sake, nor can they see how music could possibly help students in math, reading, or science. But what do the…

Listening skills are fundamental in the author's approach to teaching music to children. As a Suzuki instructor, the author is always looking for ways to help students listen more effectively. This article sets forth ways listening can be fostered, both in private instrumental study and in general music preschool and elementary classrooms. The…

Contends that children in the early childhood years do not compartmentalize knowledge and that the typical school curriculum presents artificial barriers to learning. Discusses the link between music and language acquisition and the significance of the home environment on music skill development. (CFR)

Presents an example of how a teacher can incorporate "play" into the music classroom. Describes play in general, discusses musical play, and considers the benefits of play for children. Addresses the teacher's role and how teachers can enter into children's play. (CMK)

Asks the questions (1) what is critical thinking in music?; (2) why is it so important that we engage students in it?; and (3) what does it have to do with music education? Answers these questions and elaborates on the notion of critical thinking as an educational goal and tool. (MJP)

Provides a brief commentary on the values of music education. (Editor)

Considered the development of perceptual awareness in childhood, when habits of behavior are being formulated and response sets are being established. (Author/RK)

Discusses music concepts and analyzes the process of musical indoctrination and its meaning for the music student. (RK)

Article discusses innovative educational approaches to teaching music to learning-disabled children. (Author/MM)

Reviews current research findings in the field of music in early childhood. Focuses on the musical development of the average child, citing evidence of music cognition and of music production. Reports some model programs established by music educators to work with parents and preschools to encourage musical development in the young child. (LS)