we can all make music

born to sing, sing to grow

Why singing together is essential to child development

Most of those responsible for nurturing infants, children and adolescents have always recognised the importance of active music-making to the development of the kids in their care.

At last, 'evidence-based research' has begun to confirm what they have always believed and has informed their daily practices. What has emerged most powerfully from the research is that active music-making, in particular group singing, is not just a useful tool but an essential aspect of human development.

The benefits can be summarised under four headings: socialisation, learning capacity, teaching methods and personal development.

SOCIALISATION

Singing together fosters co-operation and interaction (together we can do more than we can alone), simultaneous listening and vocalisation, 'groupness' (bonding/sense of belonging), the direct experience of synergy (the sum is greater than the parts) and embodies the values of diversity and respect (across gender, age, culture and skill level).

LEARNING CAPACITIES

Singing together develops memory capacity, attentiveness, pattern recognition, rhythmic understanding and facility, body/mind co-ordination, language ability, volume control, connectedness, curiosity and creative initiative.

TEACHING METHODS

Singing together is an effective memorisation device and an engaging introduction to history and culture. And it's great for mood control, upping energy levels (and facilitating relaxation and calm), focus, content delivery, integration of play and instruction, and the enhancement of events and occasions.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Singing together brings awareness of self and others, provides emotional expression and outlet, and develops identity, confidence, self-esteem, a sense of achievement, expressiveness and health (mental and physical).

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When all this is looked at as a whole, it is immediately apparent why a school without song is no school at all - it is simply impossible to ensure that a child's full potential is realised without music in the mix.

And the glorious fact is that it's not difficult. A few basic techniques, accessible to even the most tentative and nervous, can transform a class into an ensemble.

CMV can facilitate this process. If you're interested, please contact us. And we've collected a huge amount of information about the sources of current research that we're eager to share. Again, if you think this back-up would help you, just call.