34 METHODS IN TEACHING 



systematic exercise in the schools is visible in the improved 

 health and physical development of the children. 



MUSIC 1 



Music holds a distinctive place in education, one which no 

 other study can fill. It develops the emotional nature and 



reaches to the higher and inner life of the 

 Education heart and the soul. " The meaning of song 



goes deep. Who is there who in logical 

 words can express the effect music has upon us ? A kind of 

 inarticulate, unfathomable speech which leads us to the edge 

 of the infinite." Martin Luther says : " Music admonishes 

 man, renders him mild, gentle, modest, and reasonable. He 

 who knows the art is ennobled by it and has aptitude for all 

 things." How carefully must this subject be presented so 

 that it may perform its true office of developing high and 

 noble ideals which may become realities in the life and char- 

 acter of the child. 



Great care is exercised in selecting songs both as to words 

 and music, for impressions that are to be lasting are being 



formed. Every song should represent a 



mood that the child can feel and express; 

 the music should be suited to the words and in a key that is 

 adapted to the voices. The songs are often chosen with 

 reference to the season of the year, correlating when possi- 

 ble with nature study, literature, or history. No song should 

 ever be sung in a lifeless or indifferent manner. " There is 

 a correspondence between the soul of a song and the heart of 

 a child," and if the teacher is enthusiastic, in sympathy with 



1 The section on music is compiled from the course of study for 

 the city schools as given by Miss Emily Dodge, supervisor in music. 



