Three work books for junior high school music classes

Abstract

As the music classes of the Junior High School are the last classes of this type which most students attend there should be consolidation of the fundamentals of music which provide for basic musicianship. This period should include a review of the studies covered in earlier grades and at the same time provide a brief course for those whose previous studies have been incomplete. Voice training at this period can not be overemphasized as the voices are maturing and should acquire correct vocal habits. However, great emphasis should be placed upon music reading as the student interest from this point on will depend largely upon his ability to read and understand music. In order to be a music reader the student must have a knowledge of scales and key signatures and the problems involved in modulations. Also a knowledge of time signatures and rhythms is needed. To improve part singing which is culminated during these years a knowledge of harmony is needed. As part singing progresses there should be some emphasis upon ear training and interval skips. Then, to interpret music in a musical manner, an understanding of form and musical terms is necessary. The creative field should not be overlooked and the student should be allowed to try his skill in writing melodies. All of the above mentioned phases of music have to do with the students participation in various musical organizations. However, the greater part of the students musical life will be spent as a listener, and this field should also be emphasized. As a listener the student should have an understanding of the composer of the past and present and their music. In order to better understand these he should know something of the folk tunes of various nations and their influence upon composed music. Many compositions were influenced by the personal life of their composers so the students should have some miniature biographies in mind. To better understand instrumental music the student should study the instruments of the band and orchestra and the technical limitations of these instruments. This can best be improved by time spent in listening to recorded music with help and guidance from the teacher. In order to combine all of these various phases of music which go into the make-up of a fine musical background and to present them within the usual time limits of the Junior High music class, I have prepared this series of workbooks.