The Importance of Composition in Middle School General Music

Published on : 05-22-2023

As described by Samantha Foss, middle school is an important time for students to develop a wide range of musical skills. One area that should not be overlooked is composition. While singing and playing instruments are essential components of general music classes, composing music can help students build creativity, critical thinking skills, and overall musicianship.

Developing Creativity through Composition

Encouraging students to compose their own music allows them to tap into their creative potential. When given the opportunity to express themselves through music, students can explore different musical styles, experiment with new sounds, and find their own unique voice By composing their own music, students can also learn to appreciate the creative process behind the music they listen to.

Strengthening Critical Thinking Skills

Composing music requires students to apply critical thinking skills They need to analyse and understand different musical elements like melody, harmony, rhythm, and form to create a cohesive piece of music Students must also make decisions about instrumentation, dynamics, and tempo to bring their compositions to life. These critical thinking skills can serve students well in other areas of their academic and personal lives

Building Overall Musicianship

Composing music is also an excellent way for students to build their overall musicianship When students write their own music, they gain a deeper understanding of how music works and how different musical elements interact with each other This knowledge can help students become better performers and listeners It can also inspire them to continue pursuing music beyond the middle school years.

Incorporating Composition into General Music Classes

There are several ways that teachers can incorporate composition into general music classes For example, students could compose short pieces using simple rhythmic patterns or melodic motifs Teachers could also provide students with a set of chords and ask them to create a melody over the top. Alternatively, students could work together to create a collaborative piece of music

Conclusion

Composition is a valuable component of middle school general music classes. By composing their own music, students can develop creativity, critical thinking skills, and overall musicianship With the right guidance and support from teachers, students can discover the power of music composition and find their own unique voice in the world of music.