The Somerset reporter., 1899-01-05
Music in Schools.

Following is the Kennebec Journals
report of an address delivered at the
teachers convention in Augusta, by
Miss Olive Winslow of Dexter, upon
"The Value of Music in the Public
Schools"
ave all know the pleasurable sensa-
ton music gives, but aside from that
will tell the different divisions. First,
the sanctity of music; second, the CORE
lation of music with other studies; third,
the method used in our schools. Nc
one of the arts is more popular and
lies more pleasure to the masses, and
not an art is more abused than music.
7 b E., art is thought by some to be used
too much as an amusement and too little
as n means of education. Our aims as
teachers is to use it in its broadcast sense,
placing education first, but getting all
the pleasure from it We can. Music is
one of the means of culture; it is the
highest factor in human civilization.
N usic has ever been connected with re-
ligion as one will find all through the
Bible but it is as truly for the home as
for the church. Next to religion, music
is said to be the greatest factor in civii-
cation. some old writer said, All
States which are distinguished for the
best laws show the greatest love for
music. If music is merely a plaything
and amusement, and merely to arouse
the emotions; if it has not higher mis-
sion, why does the book of God mention
its origin?'
All the histories of the world tell us
# hn e 10 nd 10 nh
sideration by all the people. A Bucks
port teacher tells me she considers
music invaluable to her. She is musi.
clan and has always had music In her
schools. She said TO me that when her
pupils were restless and bubbling over
with mischief, she makes them take the
singing position and sing several songs,
after which everything moves along
smoothly. 1t is great factor in dis
cipline, as was said by Luther. This is
proved by every illustration that has yet
been heard of throughout the State and
elsewhere. Educators are coming to
appreciate more and more its disciple
nary powers, when properly taught.
The correlation of music with other
branches is by no means the theory of
an enthusiast, but is a practical posi-
bility, nay more a necessity to the broad
minded, intelligent teacher. Correla-
ton as the word is generally used,
means the working together of all
branches, so that one throws light upon
the other. Music properly taught as
sists in the study of reading because
both require the same mental processes.
AS we aim for sweet tones, it will soften
and refine the child's manner of speak
ing. 1t will assist in their reading
poetry. AS every syllable in music
must be properly pronounced and held
so long, it helps in clear enunciation.
We require them to write music and
little songs therefore assisting in the
spelling and writing In the study of
literature, music assists by preparing
the mind 80 that it appreciates the
beauties of language. In reading line
of music at sight it assists in the analy-
sis in grammar. The advanced student
in music must have quite an ability in
mathematics to conduct the theory and
difficult composition. 1t assists in de-
veloping the Imagination of the pupil.
Vocal music is a form of physical cul-
ture, as 1t requires erect, easy position
and an Increased amount of breath
which strengthens the lungs and i'm
proves the circulation. Temperance is
strengthened and Taught in the many
songs, sung The patriotic songs also
teach patriotism. The ability to sing or
to be able to play upon an instrument,
is a passport into society. 1t is source
of pleasure to others, as we'll as to the
musician. The cost to town will not
be over 25 cents year to pupil and at
that price many a prodigy may be edu-
Gated, of whom we shall be proud in
years to come. AS our education be-
comes more complete music is found to
be more necessary for physical, inteleo-
tual and moral reasons. Let me say
before closing, that | believe everyone
who has no vocal deformity can learn to
sing"