Morris, Laura Rosenberg, M.A., Summer 2009 Fine Arts, Integrated Arts and Education
Developing the Whole Child Through Movement in the Music Classroom
Chairperson: Karen Kaufmann
Committee: Dr. Randy Bolton, Dr. Ann Wright
The early twentieth century brought forth some very strong figures in the world of arts pedagogy. Among them were Carl Orff and Emile Jacque-Dalcroze. Both were composers as well as music educators. Both believed that in order for a musician to perform expressively rather than mechanically, one had to feel music in the body. Orff and Dalcroze followers today uphold these men’s idea that movement is an essential part of the music class.
Seeking to feel more comfortable and knowledgeable about movement in teaching K-6 general music classes, I set out to research through books, films, my own movement experiences and activites through which I guided my students. Through the process, I discovered how important movement is for complete human development.
In this paper I present examples of movement activities that can be incorporated in music classes. All examples have been tested in my classroom. Through the engagement of such activities we can find a means to bring craft beyond function and into the realm of art. We can be enriched through movement in our co-ordination, learning, problem solving, sense of community and healthy well being. We can find a means of self expression as well as an empathy toward others, important ingredients for living in a free world.
