Last week, the minds of Year 1 embarked on a rhythmic adventure that intertwined movement, percussion, and the timeless beauty of classical music. Using the innovative Bati Strauss method, the children were introduced to the structures of music composition through a form of 'active listening'.
The Bati Strauss method is a gateway that allows young learners to explore classical masterpieces in a way that is both engaging and educational. It emphasises the connection between the physical and the musical, inviting the children to express what they hear through expressive gestures and the playful rhythm of percussion instruments. This multisensory approach not only deepens their understanding of music but also enhances their motor skills and coordination.
The classroom was alive with excitement as the children experienced ‘La Basque’, a piece that emanates the grandeur and elegance of the Baroque period. The music, characterised by its harmonic richness and emotional depth, served as the backdrop for a delightful story about little spiders diligently spinning their webs. Each note of ‘La Basque’ seemed to mirror the spiders’ intricate movements, inspiring the young listeners to sway and move in harmony with the music.
Through the form of storytelling, the music was transformed into a vivid narrative that captured the children's imagination. They were no longer just listeners but active participants in the creation of a musical story.
