"...success [in music education] is bound up with the need for the production of plenty of music around the child, so that there is set up an environment calculated to develop musical sense and intelligence." —Maria Montessori, the Discovery of the Child
Music is a universal language, loved by children and adults in cultures throughout the world. Children have an uninhibited inclination to move, dance, and make music, as well as an innate capacity to appreciate all types of music.
Musical activities are included in the daily life of our Montessori and respected as much as other curriculum subjects.
Research shows that music is fundamental in early childhood education, helping children to develop in various ways, including problem-solving and logic skills. Language acquisition is enhanced as children learn songs with varied vocabulary, meter, and rhyme. The music curriculum has emphasis on music literacy, singing, movement, listening, and the playing of instruments.
The goal of Montessori education is to develop to the fullest the three aspects of the child’s nature-body, mind, and spirit. Learning music happily involves all three of these dimensions and can, therefore, be a highly integrating force in the development of the child’s personality. Montessori approach to music teaches that with the right experience, all children can sing and carry a tune, all children can train their ears, all children can learn to read and write music. In other words, children can participate in one of the basic expressions of what it means to be human, in the language of music. It’s essential that classroom teachers integrate music into everyday activities through song, movement, instruments, music appreciation, the Montessori Bells, and Walking on the Line to music.
The idea that every child has musical potential and all children are able to learn and express themselves musically permeates the Montessori Method. Music activities are respected at the same level as any other form of learning. Teachers are supportive and encouraging of the child’s musical endeavors. Children learn with music, learn about music, and learn by music. Music is incorporated into the Montessori curriculum in the daily classroom environment as well as through music classes and private lessons.