The Musical Flow Through Time
Who knows for certain how music got started in the world. The first was most likely the beating on a hollow log to send messages. Then someone tried blowing through a hollow reed and found that it created a pretty sound. Skins were stretched over the end of the hollow log and a better sound was created, sticks were added and a rhythm was created. The reed was notched and fingers covered the holes to make different tones and sweeter music. On and on this creation moved over time with new ideas and creations at ever turn. It brought joy and a festive mood to the humdrum life.
At first children were taught by patient demonstration of techniques developed by an older musician. Somewhere along the way, the need for written music opened a new chapter in the history of music, creating a path that allowed more people to become personally involved in the musical world.
Teaching music to young children has never been a simple task. It takes patience and understanding of the child’s point of view. Many ways have been developed over the years, some more successful than others. The Animal Note method is one of the “newest kids on the block.” I started playing around with Animal Notes about 20 years ago. It has been fun for me and the children. They love learning this way. The method is based on characterization of animals. Each animal has a family (mother, father and children), and each member of the family has a story that helps the child learn where that animal is pictured on the Grand Staff of music. These stories help the child learn standard notation.
In the modern world note reading and timing must be learned to be truly “accomplished” with any instrument, or vocally. If Animal Notes can give that to a child, “more power to them.” They are giving that individual a gift that will be enjoyed for a life time.
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