What Exactly is Music Appreciation and Why Take the Time to Include it in Your Homeschool? (E24)

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As homeschool parents, we often find ourselves juggling multiple subjects and wondering if we can fit in what might be deemed to some people as “extras,” like music appreciation. But is music appreciation really just an extra, or is it a valuable component of a well-rounded education? In this post, we’ll explore what music appreciation is, its benefits, and practical ways to incorporate it into your homeschool curriculum easily and effectively.

What Exactly is Music Appreciation and Why Take the Time to Include it in Your Homeschool? (E24)

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What is Music Appreciation?

Music appreciation is the study of music that goes beyond mere listening and doesn’t include “applied music,” which is actually learning to play an instrument or to sing. Music appreciation involves a multifaceted exploration of music as an art form, encompassing various elements such as: understanding music’s impact on culture, exploring music’s historical context, learning about composers and musical artists, analyzing musical genres and styles, developing listening skills, and learning to connect music to other subjects.

Let’s talk briefly about each of those:

Understanding Music’s Impact: Music appreciation helps students recognize the profound effect music can have on mood, culture, and personal expression. It encourages them to think critically about how music influences society and individual experiences.
Exploring Historical Context: Music is deeply intertwined with history. By studying different musical eras, students gain insights into the cultural and historical events that shaped the music of that time. This connection enriches their understanding of both music and history.
Learning About Composers and Artists: Students learn about the lives of composers and musicians, which adds a personal dimension to the music they study. Understanding the motivations and challenges faced by these artists can foster a deeper appreciation for their work.
Analyzing Musical Genres: Music appreciation involves exploring a wide range of genres, from classical and jazz to rock and hip-hop to big band and opera. This exposure helps students understand the diversity of musical expression and the unique characteristics of each genre.
Developing Listening Skills: Active listening is a key component of music appreciation. Students learn to identify instruments, rhythms, and melodies, as well as to articulate their emotional responses to different pieces of music.
Connecting Music to Other Subjects: Music can be integrated into various subjects, such as literature, art, science, geography, and, as we’ve already mentioned, history. This interdisciplinary approach enhances learning and makes connections between different areas of study.

In essence, music appreciation is about diving deep into the “why” of music. Why did composers write certain pieces? What emotions or experiences influenced their work? How has music evolved over time? By exploring these questions, students develop a richer understanding of music and its significance in our lives.

Why Include Music Appreciation in Your Homeschool?

1. Enhances Cognitive Skills

Research has shown that music education can enhance cognitive skills, including memory, attention, and critical thinking. Engaging with music helps sharpen hearing and observational skills, which can carry over into other areas of learning. For instance, recognizing patterns in music can improve mathematical reasoning.

2. Improves Emotional Intelligence

Music is a powerful medium for expressing and understanding emotions. Analyzing music helps children develop empathy and emotional awareness, allowing them to articulate their feelings more effectively. This emotional intelligence can enhance their interpersonal skills and overall well-being.

3. Provides Historical and Cultural Context

Music offers a unique lens through which to explore history and culture. By studying music from different eras and regions, students gain insights into the values, beliefs, and experiences of various societies. This understanding fosters a more comprehensive worldview.

4. Encourages Creativity

Exposure to various musical styles can inspire creativity in other areas of learning. Music appreciation encourages students to think outside the box and explore their creative potential, whether through writing, art, or performance.

5. Offers Stress Relief

Music has a calming effect and can serve as a stress-relief tool for both children and parents. Incorporating music into your daily routine can create a more relaxed and enjoyable learning environment.

10 Homemade Musical Instruments to make with your kids at home

How to Incorporate Music Appreciation into Your Homeschool

Now that we understand the importance of music appreciation, here are some practical ways to incorporate music appreciation into your daily routine:

1. Use a Structured Curriculum

Consider using a structured music appreciation curriculum like we provide at Music in Our Homeschool. The easiest and quickest way to implement music appreciation into you already very busy homeschool, is to use the Music Lesson Calendar of the Month, which is part of the Music in Our Homeschool Plus membership. It includes ready-to-use, 15-minute or less, online lessons with listening activities and other resources that make teaching music appreciation click-and-go, as well as enjoyable.

2. Create a Music Journal

Encourage your children to keep a music journal where they can write down musical terms they learn, composers they listen to, and pieces they’ve enjoyed, along with sketches or drawings. This activity reinforces vocabulary and helps them remember key concepts. Plus, it makes a great keepsake!

3. Make Playlists

Create playlists (or find some ready-made ones) of classical pieces or music from different eras to play during meals, study sessions, or quiet reading time. This casual exposure helps foster a love for music without requiring dedicated time.

4. Watch Music Videos

Show your children videos of orchestras, ensembles, and musical performances. Platforms like YouTube have a wealth of content, including live performances and educational documentaries about music history and theory. These are included in almost every lesson of the Music Lesson Calendar of the Month.

5. Create a Musical Timeline

Visualize the progression of music history with a musical timeline project. This can be a fun and interactive way for students to see how different genres and composers relate to historical events.

6. Practice Active Listening

Play a piece of music and have your children describe what they hear—emotions, instruments, tempo changes, etc. This practice develops their listening skills and encourages them to articulate their thoughts.

7. Integrate with Other Subjects

Tie music appreciation to other subjects. For example, while studying a historical period, listen to music from that era, or explore songs related to scientific concepts like sound waves. The Music History courses from Music in Our Homeschool and others such as American Music for Elementary make this a breeze.

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8. Go on Music-Related Field Trips

Attend local orchestra performances, university concerts, or community music events. We even did a backstage tour of the Chicago Lyric Opera Theater, which was amazing. Experiencing music live can be thrilling and memorable for students, deepening their appreciation for the art form.

Chicago Lyric Opera theater backstage tour

9. Use Apps and Games

Utilize websites and apps that offer music lessons, games, and activities. Websites like classicsforkids.com provide engaging content including podcasts about composers for kids that can enhance your music appreciation curriculum.

10. Incorporate Music into Daily Routine

Play classical or diverse music during meals, study sessions, or while doing chores. This casual exposure can make music a regular part of your family life.

Conclusion:

Now, you know “what is music appreciation,” why you should include it in your homeschool, and how to do it! Which will you start with this week? Leave a comment below and let me know!