How do we teach Music and Dance education within schools that goes beyond an Annual day Celebration?

School Annual Day programs are and are always fun, they create a bond across classrooms, and create a network within the classes because in most cases 2 3 sections would be combined or different grades would be combined? to create a choreography or musical number most adults in the current generation which is the millennials and boomers would definitely agree it was one of the high points during their school time

But it was only a selected few that got to experience and will get to experience music and dance during their time in school, while most of the other students just watched their peers perform?

This limited approach not only undermines the profound benefits of Music and Dance education but also misses an opportunity to cultivate students' creativity, cognitive development, and cultural appreciation throughout the academic year. To transform music and dance education from sporadic performances into a fundamental part of the curriculum, a strategic and holistic approach is necessary.

According to the NEP 2020 point 22.2 brings a great perspective on how cultural practices in learning music and dance develop not only an Individual but also contribute to societal well-being. Excerpt from NEP 2020 [Cultural awareness and expression are among the major competencies considered important to develop in children, in order to provide them with a sense of identity, and belonging, as well as an appreciation of other cultures and identities. It is through the development of a strong sense and knowledge of their own cultural history, arts, languages, and traditions that children can build a positive cultural identity and self-esteem. Thus, cultural awareness and expression are important contributors both to individual as well as societal well-being]

So the below pointers can help in integrating the NEP policy into the school curriculum and SIFF Young Artiste being an advocate for Music and dance education believes that this approach could help in developing well-rounded human beings benefitting society at large.?

1. Make Music and Dance a Regular Part of the Curriculum

Instead of treating music and dance as special events, they should become a regular part of the school experience: Hence Young Artiste Program is offered every week as a part of the School timetable.?

• Class Time: Schedule regular classes for music and dance. For example, students could have music or dance lessons once a week, just like they do with math or science.
• Link with Other Subjects: Integrate music and dance into other subjects. For example, teach rhythms to help with math skills, or use dance to bring historical events to life.

2. Invest in Resources and Facilities

Having the right resources and spaces is crucial for effective music and dance education:

• Quality Equipment: Schools should invest in various musical instruments, such as keyboards and drums, and dance props like costumes and stage equipment.
• Dedicated Spaces: Create special rooms for music and dance that are well-equipped and designed for these activities. A music room with good acoustics and a dance studio with proper flooring can make a big difference.

3. Train and Support Teachers

Great teachers are key to great music and dance programs:

• Ongoing Training: Provide teachers with training in music and dance education. This could include workshops and courses to help them stay up-to-date with new teaching methods and trends.
• Collaborate with Experts: Partner with local musicians, dancers, and arts organizations to offer workshops and guidance for both teachers and students.

4. Encourage Student Involvement and Creativity

Get students actively involved in music and dance:

• Student Projects: Allow students to create their own music or choreograph dances. This encourages creativity and gives them a sense of ownership.
• After-School Clubs: Offer clubs or extra classes where students can explore their musical and dancing interests outside of regular lessons.

5. Celebrate Cultural Diversity

Music and dance are great ways to explore and appreciate different cultures:

• Cultural Lessons: Include lessons on the cultural backgrounds of various music and dance forms. This helps students learn about and respect different traditions.
• Community Events: Host events that involve the local community, like cultural festivals or performances. This helps students connect with their heritage and share it with others.

6. Keep Improving the Program

To make sure the music and dance program remains effective, keep evaluating and updating it:

• Gather Feedback: Regularly ask students, parents, and teachers for feedback on the music and dance program to see what’s working and what needs improvement.
• Adapt and Innovate: Stay open to new ideas and changes based on feedback and emerging trends in arts education.

Conclusion

Transforming music and dance education from a peripheral activity to a central component of the school curriculum requires a comprehensive approach. Schools can create a vibrant and enriching arts education program by integrating arts education into the daily curriculum, investing in resources and teacher training, and fostering student creativity and cultural appreciation. This not only enhances students’ academic and personal development but also ensures that the arts are valued as an essential part of the educational experience, far beyond the confines of the annual day program.

Extra Info:?

In many countries, Music & Art? is seen as an important vehicle for preserving or establishing national identity, and learners are often exposed to traditional folk culture music, and dance. This is particularly prevalent in Eastern European countries (Estonia, Greece, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, etc.)

• Germany requires public primary schools to make dance part of the official curriculum.
• Portugal has implemented dance into physical education of secondary school students

In England, instrumental teaching is being funded to stimulate the take up of instruments amongst primary school children; and other projects and programs which are designed to enrich the curriculum through the involvement of professional musicians of all styles and traditions. These are funded through both government departments for Education and Culture.?