The Role of Music in the Classroom by Helene Goldnadel

Music affects us so powerfully. This article by Helene Goldnadel looks at the role of music in the classroom. There are several researches that have been made regarding the use of music in the classroom. According to a director of Music Ventures, a program that trains teachers how to integrate music into the curriculum, "a teacher has to open up every door, to every child, to let them discover their infinite possibilities." She said music is sometimes the incentive needed for the student who has given up on school or has never found his or her strength in school. Furthermore, the National Association for Music Education (MENC), USA shows that skills learned through the discipline of music are transferable to study skills, communication skills, and cognitive skills, which are useful in every part of any curriculum.

Catchy tunes and phrases provide children with an easy way to recite and remember facts. A study by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2004 found the effectiveness of learning mathematics multiplication facts for young scholars between the ages of 6 and 10 through songs and popular music. Music also promotes wonder. A 2005 study by a professor at the University of California, Irvine found that arts education appears to really bring out the best in students. They enjoy, gain nourishment from, and build their confidence through participation in the arts, such as music, drawing and painting.

Studies have shown that music strengthens the right side of the brain. This is an important characteristic because the more parts of the brain that are used, the better the user's synapses develop. Early exposure to music seems to enhance brain development of young children. A study from the University of California found that exposing young children to music can help them perform better than those who are not. Children exposed to music were much better at solving puzzles and they scored significantly higher in intelligence tests.

According to an internationally-known music expert, music affects our feelings and energy levels. It can create a smoother, quicker transition between activities. A 2009 study has shown that music can increase students' energy level. There is a relationship between energy level and performance level. A 16-year-old student from Bedok Green Secondary School, Singapore was one of the top three N-level scorers in the country. She said her teacher make sure the energy level in the classroom was always high. Fun lessons make her realized the joy of learning and make her one of the top student.

Hence, countries with good academic performance gave emphasis to music education. The use of music in the early development of children encourages critical thinking and improves psychomotor skills.