Knowing the Children We Teach: Essays on Music Learning

The Children We Teach emphasizes the importance of children in music learning and teaching, and the interdependent relationship between music teacher and children. It offers insight into the innate traits of children and how engaging them musically can nurture their hearts, minds, and spirits.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 148 pages
Publication date: 05 April 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The Children We Teach is a groundbreaking approach to music learning and teaching that places children at the very heart of the educational process. It is essential to understand that the way we teach children is directly influenced by our understanding of them. The environment we create for music learning, as well as the decisions we make regarding music content and skills, are crucial factors in shaping their musical development.

However, it is equally important to acknowledge the profound and interconnected relationship that exists between music teachers and children. This relationship goes beyond the surface and encompasses the emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects of their interactions. Recent trends in music education often prioritize what children should know about music rather than what music educators need to know about children. While this may seem like a shift in focus, it is essential to recognize that understanding children's innate traits and characteristics is crucial in creating effective and meaningful music learning experiences.

This book offers valuable insights into the innate qualities of children, including goodness, kindness, needs, spirituality, playfulness, and wonder. Each essay is supported by extensive research and features data collected from music teacher-participants. By engaging children musically, we have the opportunity to nurture not only their hearts, minds, and spirits but also our own.

Through The Children We Teach, we gain a deeper understanding of the importance of creating a child-centered approach to music education. We learn how to create learning environments that are engaging, inclusive, and supportive of children's individual needs and interests. We also discover how to incorporate music into the broader curriculum, promoting holistic development and fostering a love for music that lasts a lifetime.

In conclusion, The Children We Teach is a must-read for anyone who is passionate about music education and wants to create a positive and nurturing learning environment for children. By placing children at the center of our teaching and learning, we can unlock their full potential and help them develop into confident, creative, and compassionate individuals.

Weight: 231g
Dimension: 229 x 151 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781475866018