MUSIC FOR CHILDREN.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20307, 15 July 1929, Page 12

MUSIC FOR CHILDREN.

GROUP METHOD OF TUITION. COMMENCEMENT AT DUNEDIN. [BY TELEGRAPH. —OWN* CORRESPONDENT.] DUNEDIN, Sunday. A scheme of musical instruction that is something new for Dunedin will bo commenced this week, when the initial stages of the group method of teaching children will be conimenced. This system is in vogue abroad and is enjoying much success. It will be directed by Mr. J. Crossley Clitheroe, principal of music at tho Training College. The fundamental principle of the scheme lies in the teaching of rhythm and tho relationship of notation to sound. Tho children will bo engaged in exercises of the eurhythmic type intended to make them understand the keepin got" time. The notes will be learned as time goes on. Tho exercises will include class marching to various times, with diversified eurhythmic arm exercises, so that tho child may embark upon tho lessons with a knowledge of the elements of music before actually learning the notation. Those who show no aptitude at all will be advised to give up the attempt to learn. The course is designed to bring out and develop tho latent gifts of children who possess a natural aptitude for playing. It is in rio way in opposition to private music teachers, and a system will be evolved whereby thoso children who undertake such a step will be drafted out to private teachers to finish olf the tuition.