Classical music has been enjoyed by all walks of life since the Golden Age. From 1730 to 1820 great composers flourished from western europe. But what most of us focus on, however, isn’t the details of this type of music, the period, or the composers themselves. Instead we’ve been drawn in by the benefits listening to this type of music may provide. Since, French researcher Dr. Alfred A. Tomatis published his book Pourquoi Mozart, and coined the phrase the “Mozart effect” we (parents, teachers, and students alike) have been clamoring to incorporate classical music into our daily life.
Some believed benefits:
- Decreases blood pressure
- Boosts memory
- Sparks in creativity
- Reduces stress levels
- Helps to fight depression
- Relieves pain
And for children:
- Boost in concentration
- Boost in self discipline
- Improved listening
- Improved social skills
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2536032/Playing-classical-music-baby-improve-listening-skills-later-life.html
Now, I don’t know if some or all of these are true but I do hope so. When we play these masterpieces for our children though let’s not merely do so in the hopes of increasing points on a test sheet. Let’s actually learn alongside our children about the life and times of these composers.
What makes them great
When our kids read or hear about these great people it’s primarily at the point when they have “made it.” They see the success minus the struggles. And that cheats not only the person we’re learning about, but our children as well. When they hear of the humble origins, family tragedies, or numerous rejections these great people experienced they become real and relatable.
From Johann Sebastian Bach’s time in prison, to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s financial struggles, or Ludwig Van Beethoven’s tumultuous relationship with his father. We can all learn how life’s difficulties made their victories all that much sweeter. And doesn’t that give us all hope for our own stories.
https://www.ladydspeaks.com/unexpected-benefits/
For a day or two I have my daughters listen to one of these composers during meal times and while they’re working on their daily activities. Yes, a little part is because of the benefits I hope they’ll receive. But also because I want them to become familiar with the works before they learn about the composer. Then the next couple of days we’ll read through a brief biography on their life (see link below). Then once we’ve discussed what we had learned or even our thoughts and feelings we’d give it (the music that is) another listen. It may only be to one or two of their pieces yet somehow the music sounds different. Is it because we got a glimpse of the heart of the composer? Or maybe we now have a better understanding on what was transpiring when the piece was created. That can definitely lend some clarity. Who knows. But there’s something to be said about getting to know the great composers on a more personal level.
