The Importance of Music Education in Primary Schools

As an experienced primary school teacher and former science professor, I have long advocated for the integration of music education into the curriculum. In my experience, the significance of music in the primary school setting is often undervalued, overshadowed by the emphasis on traditional subjects such as reading, writing, and mathematics (the 3 Rs).

My Experience With Music in School

When I attended school, the only music class we had was on Mondays and Wednesdays, and it consisted of a teacher attempting to get us to sing along with choir songs, often to the frustration of both her and the students. The class dynamics were chaotic, with one section talking when the teacher turned to another, leading to a never-ending tirade of reprimands. Despite the frustration, little was learned apart from the fact that not all music is noise.

It wasn't until my 36th birthday that I realized the fundamental aspect of music—its rhythm. Until then, I had no idea that there was an objective difference between music and noise beyond the presence of musical instruments. While the class kept us occupied for a few hours a week, it did little to foster a lifelong appreciation for music.

Music Education in the UK

In the United Kingdom, music education often involves listening and, if luck is on your side, singing. While some schools do engage in shaker and xylophone exercises, the Orff Schulwerk approach, which emphasizes a deep understanding and motivation from both students and teachers, is not widely practiced. This method requires significant time and full involvement from the teacher, something that may be harder to achieve in a system focused primarily on the 3 Rs.

My own experience with music at school was limited, with music classes only happening once a week. In longer holidays, I would dedicate an entire afternoon to music practice. Students who were interested could join me, and they often did. We had the opportunity to travel to various countries, including the USA, Russia, Russia's cities like Leningrad and Rostov on Don, Bavaria, and Florida, to participate in international music conferences and performances. These experiences were transformative, showing me the potential of music as a powerful educational tool.

Music as an Undervalued Subject

Unfortunately, music is often not seen as a priority in primary schools, and teachers may be reluctant to engage with it due to a perception that it is only for experts. However, music can be as thought-intensive as any other subject and can greatly benefit students in various ways, such as improving concentration, memory, and emotional intelligence. As someone who has seen the positive impact of music education firsthand, I strongly believe that we could all do much more to integrate music into the primary school curriculum.

As a scientist and mathematics professor, I initially hesitated to fully dedicate myself to music and art. However, I eventually realized that these subjects were equally important and could contribute significantly to a child's overall development. Music can be a powerful motivator, a tool for building teamwork, and a means for self-expression.

The Potential of Music in Education

Properly integrated into the curriculum, music can enhance learning in various ways. It can improve language skills, cognitive development, and social skills. For instance, rhythm-based activities can help children develop time perception and motor skills, while singing and musical compositions can boost vocabulary and creative thinking. Furthermore, music can serve as a universal language, bridging cultural gaps and fostering a sense of community.

It's time for us to recognize the value of music education in primary schools. By doing so, we can create a more holistic and engaging educational experience for our students, one that prepares them for a world where creativity, collaboration, and adaptability are essential skills.