Strengthening the Educational Value of the Elementary Musical
Abstract
Strengthening the Educational Value of the Elementary Musical SAGE Publications, Inc.2004DOI: 10.1177/10483713040180010104 Barbara Peterson East Elementary School, New Richmond, Wisconsin, barbp@newrichmond.k12.wi.us or many years I struggled with the amount of time involved in rehearsing Ffor an elementary musical presentation. I mistakenly felt that it was taking time away from valuable curriculum. Little did I know then that by using the theories of constructivism and multiple intelligences, these rehearsals can strengthen student learn- ing. Students actually benefit more from the learning experience as my job changes from that of director of the musical to facilitator of the experience. The elementary school music program is one of the most important elements of the elementary school year. Like it or not, this performance often becomes the primary assessment by which a music educator and the music department are judged. When planning music programs, there are many consider- ations to take into account. Certainly, it is important to consider the convenience of the parents, the demands of the administration, the sanity and integrity of the music specialist, plus tradition. Yet more important, the at- tempt to make this performance a valuable learning experience for the students should be of utmost concern. My