Philosophy of Music Education

Philosophy of Music Education

There are different methods of teaching music that people have developed over the years (e.g. Suzuki, Kodaly, Orff).  I’ll look at them in further posts.  More often than not, studio teachers use various aspects of these methods, but generally they follow what their own teacher/s taught them, as unless they’ve made a specific study of that method, there are no established guidelines for studio music teachers.  No matter what method they use, their teaching will be based on their own musical philosophy.

How to come up with your own philosophy of music education. 

Try figuring out answers to these questions:

·         What is important to you about music?

·         What your favourite part about learning music?

·         Who was your favourite music teacher?  What was the most important thing they taught you?  What would you do similarly?

·         Who was your least favourite music teacher?  What was the most important thing they taught you? What would you do differently?

·         How did you best learn music?  How do you thing others learn?

·         What is the best thing about working with children?

These answers will help to shape your philosophy of music.  You will refine your philosophy as you continue your teaching career, so don’t worry if it feels a bit clunky at the moment.

I believe that music is for everyone.  My aim is not to necessarily create professional musicians (but if that’s where you’re heading, then I can take you there!), but I believe that music is an integral part of our culture and our lives.

A music class is a community – everyone knows each other and we work together to learn.  Competition has its place, but a class is a learning situation.

I try to create an environment in a class that is supportive, engaging and friendly.

I believe that students need to work at the top of their ability and be pushed to achieve more.  Technique is just important (if not more) than repertoire.

Ultimately, I want students to have a positive experience with music.

What’s your philosophy?

Metaphor of Music Education

Something else that might help you is to come up with a metaphor for music teaching.  This might be an image, a saying or proverb, or something completely random!

My metaphor of teaching is the children’s show Sesame Street.  There’s lots of singing and dancing, everyone belongs, there’s lots of learning, and it’s fun!

So…what’s your teaching philosophy/metaphor?