The Syracuse Community Folk Art Center (CFA), was the place to be, as children from Pre-school to grades three years old gathered. They participated in an exciting event regarding music as an important vehicle for developing the brain. The event was held on Saturday, October 6, 2018, from 2 o’clock Pm to 3Pm.
The coordinators were Cincereru Read and Lakita Dawkins, Jack and Jill of Syracuse. They work hard in promoting the ideals and mission of the organization. Hats off to them, for the great work planning. Research and studies have proven that music is important in the lives of children at an early age, as well as throughout adult years.
Therefore, engagement and participation in music, whether instrumental, vocal and related arts can contribute immensely to the quality of life. Music is therapy, academic and is relative to growth. “The Brain loves music”, states many educators in the field. The process involves many tasks such as social skills development, expansion of memory, working roles and other functions. It is suggested that we include music as a part of the child’s experiences. It is suggested that music should be included as an important focus at an early age.
There are various stages of development which can be monitored through positive music experiences. Music in the schools and community should not exclude the arts, and other pertinent subjects from its curriculum, this is my assessment as a retired Supervising Director of Music for the Washington, D. C. Public Schools, and Professor of Music at Bowie State University. In writing curriculum, it was my focus to be inclusive of the interdisciplinary approach to learning at all levels. Therefore, students and teachers could connect the subject to all disciplines such as math, social students, science, physics, and other related arts by not teaching in isolation.
The Jack and Jill of Syracuse, New York presented a Kinder-music approach to developmental facts supporting the importance of music at various stages of early
childhood. The students participated in many activities in rhythm, movement, singing and playing rhythm instruments. The room was filled with excitement. They moved, created rattles, shakers, engaged in activities that developed cognitive and motor skills.
Parents and adults participated by engaging in partner skills as they carried out the activities Important facts were unfolded, as we could witness the children sharing instruments, engaging with each other socially, swaying and moving to multicultural types of music.
Refer to other related topics on “Brain Study”. Invest in music: It’s worth it!
For more information on the topic email Dr. Joan Hillsman at jhillsman@twcny.rr.com.
Special thanks are extended to Jack and Jill for the hard work and quality preparation for such a valuable experience. Bravo!
