The Muso Method and Traditional Method of music education each have distinct philosophies and approaches that cater to different learning styles and goals. Here are some key differences between the two methods:
Focus on Sight Reading, Aural Skills and Music Theory
- Muso Method: This method emphasizes the development of sight-reading skills from the beginning, enabling students to read and interpret music notation with confidence. This focus fosters independence, allowing students to tackle new pieces with assurance.
- Aural skills are introduced in group classes and then for 5 mins in individual lessons, occurring monthly or weekly if an exam is approaching. Music theory is taught through practical application, but graded books are not introduced until students are around 8 years old or have completed their Grade 5 music exams. This approach helps accelerate progress and encourages young children to appreciate classical music more.
- Traditional Method: In contrast, the Traditional Method prioritizes sight reading, aural skills, and music theory books from the beginning. Students learn to read music alongside playing, which provides a solid foundation in music literacy.
- However, this comprehensive approach may delay grade progress due to the extensive writing required for music theory, potentially leading to boredom among students. The time spent on music theory writing can limit the opportunity for students to learn additional pieces compared to the Muso Method, which may hinder their sight-reading skills and overall musicality.
Teaching Style and Environment
- Muso Method: The Muso Method incorporates a fun and engaging teaching style (e.g. soft toys), focusing on a balanced approach that includes musicality and technique. It fosters a collaborative learning environment involving students, parents, and teachers.
- Traditional Method: The Traditional Method typically follows a more structured and formal approach to music education. Lessons are often one-on-one, and the focus is on developing technical skills and music theory through a more classical lens. Parents are often asked to not be in the room.
Performance Opportunities
- Muso Method: This method places a strong emphasis on performance, encouraging students to showcase their skills through various performance and competition opportunities. This helps build confidence and stage presence.
- Traditional Method: While performance is also important in the Traditional Method, it may not be as central to the learning experience. Students are often encouraged to participate in ensembles and recitals, but the focus is primarily on individual skill development. Students are often asked to complete every grade exam, delaying their progress and leading to boredom.
Parental Involvement
- Muso Method: The Muso Method encourages significant parental involvement, fostering a supportive environment where parents actively participate in their child's learning process. However, parents are encouraged to not play for their kids at home to prevent 'copying hands' and not 'tell' or write the letters of the notes on the score.
- Traditional Method: In the Traditional Method, parental involvement can vary widely. Parents may support their child's practice environment but are not typically required to attend lessons or participate actively in the learning process. Sometimes parents or teachers write letters of the notes, which reduces sight reading skills and self-confidence.
Conclusion
Both the Muso Method and Traditional Method have their strengths and can lead to musical success.
However, the Muso Method is the modern approach to the Traditional Method to help more kids (and adults) become life long lovers of classical music playing. Obviously since we hear so many adults saying 'they forgot everything despite getting Grade 8' or 'I was yelled at in my lessons a lot', it obviously means there is something wrong with the traditional method!
FYI - both Lawrence and I use to teach the 'strict' version of the traditional method. A very old school Chinese/Russian way, and we did NOT like it.
Check out our new video on our how we make drilling fun for kids!
Kindest