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BY VENORA AARON
Never underestimate the power of music. Dr. Edwin Gordon (the creator of music
literacy theory) was on target when he argued that when children are able to cognitively
understand music, they are able to apply those same skills to reading and writing (GIML
2008-2015). Music is relaxing, enjoyable and it encourages active listening. When
implemented properly, music literacy can prove to be very instrumental in effectively
teaching beginners readers to read and write and developing stronger reading skills in
reluctant readers. The students will actually began to enjoy reading because they
understand what they are reading.
As I studied and researched music literacy, I could not help but reflect on my
years as a young child. Unknowingly at the time, my first interaction with literacy was
through songs, music and movement. Remember the ABC song; Mary had a Little
Lamb; One Little, Two Little, Three Little Indians; If You Happy and You Know It; Head,
Shoulders Knees and Toes; Hokey Pokey, Patty Cake; Twinkle Twinkle Little Star?
These songs and nursery rhymes assist students in developing early sounds, words
and concepts; all accomplished through rhythm, cadence and repetitions of songs and
music. Appling this information to songs and movements soothes children and assist
them in learning. As I observed various music literacy programs, I watched as the music
put the children at ease and how each child interacted and responded to music.
Children who entered the room who stuck closely to their parent or guardian began to
gradually focus more on the music rather than their shyness. Developing research for
music literacy has been extremely enlightening, informative and educational. The
Reference
GIML. "Music Learning Theory." Gordon Institute for Music Learning. 2008-2015.
http://giml.org/mlt/ (accessed April 20, 2015).
Natalia Golva, MD, Anthony J Alario, Patrick M Vivler, Margaret Rodriguez, and Pamela
C. High. "Literacy Promotion for Hispanic Families in a Primary Care Setting: A
Randomized, Controlled Trial." Office Journal of American Academy of Pediatrics
Vol 103, 1999: 993-997.
Stewart, Nancy, interview by Venora Aaron. Music Literacy Specialist (February 19,
2015).