EC1-2 Music Overview: “Musical training is a more potent instrument than any other, because rhythm and harmony find their way into the inward places of the soul, on which they mightily fasten, imparting grace.” – Plato, Republic III
The benefits of music and the study of music are numerous—it optimizes brain development, promotes physical coordination, increases cognitive skills, improves social interaction, with a yield of joy and accomplishment. Music offers students many opportunities to grow and flourish as they participate in music-making skills and experiences, analysis through music listening and reading, creativity and musical expression, learn about music history and cultural context, develop their language skills, and are part of an aesthetic community.
EC1-2 Music Teacher Text builds music-making skills and experiences, teaches understanding of music, develops listening skills, offers opportunities for creative and individual expression, and gives students exposure to various styles of music through a cultural/historical context. Eighty bi-weekly lessons include student objectives, worldview integration, introduction, and detailed teaching methods and learning activities. This text also includes a lyrics appendix.
EC1-2 Music Prints, produced on high-quality cardstock, provide images of each of the composers of the month, as well as other images used in various lessons.
EC1-2 Music audio files, delivered via a USB flash drive, are a curated list of songs and music files used in the curriculum.
EC1-2 Music Demo DVD is an invaluable teacher resource that demonstrates specific movements, rhythms, patterns, dances, and teaching methods referenced within the Methods section of each lesson. These are intended to inform the teacher's preparation rather than to replace teacher-led instruction. Occasional use with the students following initial instruction might prove helpful.
