Noise vs. Music- this is the big question in our house. As a natural introvert raising extroverted kids, I’m often overwhelmed with the sheer amount of noise they make. They make every excuse to make noise, too. Especially in the name of music. They enjoying doing it together, too. Four kids, people. We have a small set of instruments by our favorite wooden toy dealer (cymbals and triangle removed) and some maraca type eggs (shaky eggs). All the kids love them and of course ask to make music often. But in reality it’s less music and more noise. Or is it? Does it matter?
Noise vs. Music
Tell the truth. Do your kids make too much noise on a constant basis? Are their conversations always worthy of an astronaut? Is their singing perfectly on key? If so, tell me your secrets. Despite their intelligence, our teaching, and numerous outside activities our kids are still just that: kids. They believe that humming, repeating the same phrase ad nauseum and banging on things is MUSIC. To me, it definitely is not. I am a huge music fan, loving everything from Willie Nelson and Taylor Swift to the Beatles, 90’s one hit wonders, Train, and Garth Brooks. But my kids? Anything goes.
So the question is– does it matter whether it is noise vs. music when you home school? Teaching them music notes, how to approximate on key, loud and soft, tempo, and how it’s really just poetry set to music is a really good thing. But annoying as it is, I’m not certain it really matter which it is. They will gain appreciation for music the more you play for them. Play old cd’s or tapes (anyone still have any?) Internet stream a variety of channels from classic to punk. Invite them to write lyrics. Teach them nursery rhymes, camp songs, and Piano Man. Teach them the National Anthem, to clap for others when they perform, and how to take a compliment.
When they are just screaming, send them outside to make music. Trust me, they will have a great time, bore of it quickly, and be happy to do it again and again! Let them explore to their hearts content. Outside if necessary. Eventually they will learn the difference between noise and music. They’ll figure out if they’re good singers, soloists, or instrumentalists. Whether at home or in a classroom, they’ll figure it out. Just like we did.
