A handbook for teaching vocal music to children in a Protestant Church school

Includes bibliographical references (page 93)Classroom music is for all children and should be taught with the same priority and goals as language, art, or any other subject. This handbook--a guide designed basically for the church school music instructor and choir director on the elementary and junior high school level---is written to supply the guidelines necessary to build a foundation which will ultimately result in a successful music program. A repertoire of anthems, books and materials available on the market today, is included in this work. The material covered in this handbook is an accumulation of the author's experiences with vocal music in the classroom and in the church. The needs of two Lutheran Schools of different sizes have been studied and incorporated herein. Motivation and inspiration came from the awareness of the decline in music being offered to children in public schools today on the elementary and junior high school level. Financial cuts have almost deleted the music program from the curriculum. This omission and neglect has become frightening to choral teachers on the secondary level as well as to choir directors in the churches. It appears that it will be some time before the full music program is restored in the public school system. Music has not been cut from the curriculum in most Church Schools. It is still vital to the church supporting the school. Therefore, the classroom teacher in a church school situation has a duty and obligation to teach music to every child on an everyday basis. Consciously or unconsciously, the child in a choir or a classroom reflects characteristics of their teacher. It is important then that the teacher has an enthusiastic and cheerful attitude toward the children. His charm or personality has much to do with the success of the music program. He should conduct all lessons and all rehearsals with enthusiasm. In order to teach a lesson or to direct a choir with this kind of spirit and enthusiasm, one must know what he is??? doing. He must be confident that he knows the material he is teaching and how to present it in the most, effective way. The teacher must also inspire confidence in the children and thereby command their attention and respect. This handbook includes the objectives and goals, the methods of teaching to achieve these goals, and a psychology and a philosophy that will not only teach the basic skills in a pleasant way but will also contribute to building character and the confidence of each child. Teaching children to sing is a most gratifying exper1ence. The author trusts this handbook will assist the reader with the challenge he has undertaken, so he will reap the rewards offered from his worthwhile efforts