Perhaps there is no greater harmony in the world of Waldorf learning than the rhythms of musical education. According to Rudolf Steiner, the human being is a musical being, and the making of music is essential in experiencing what it is to be fully human. Making, listening, and learning about music allows us to engage the heart, head, and hands, and activates every part of our bodies through movement and sound. It is truly essential.
In the Waldorf pedagogy, music is celebrated early in a child’s life so it can continue to be joyfully expressed throughout one's entire life. Waldorf music highlights a variety of different instruments and scales that might not be familiar to everyone. Whether it is learning about the pentatonic scale or hearing the hauntingly beautiful sound of a zither, this blog will highlight some of the particulars of music in the Waldorf tradition and ways to incorporate them into your family's rhythm to create a lifelong and heart-centered appreciation for music.
The Pentatonic Scale in Waldorf Education: Nurturing Harmony and Imagination
In Waldorf early childhood education, music plays a vital role in nurturing children's development. One particular musical element that holds special significance is the pentatonic scale. But what exactly is the pentatonic scale, and why is it so important in Waldorf education? Let's explore the unique qualities of this scale and its role in fostering a dreamy, imaginative state for young learners.
What is the Pentatonic Scale?
The pentatonic scale is a five-note musical scale. Unlike the more commonly known diatonic scale, which includes seven notes (do, re, mi, fa, sol, la, ti), the pentatonic scale removes two notes, typically C and F. This leaves us with the notes D, E, G, A, and B.
In Waldorf education, instruments tuned to the pentatonic scale, such as the kinder harp or pentatonic lyre, create a harmonious and ethereal sound, perfectly suited to young children. Interestingly, while it’s a five-note scale, many pentatonic instruments feature seven strings or notes. This is because the notes D and E repeat at the end, resulting in a sequence of D, E, G, A, B, D, E. This repetition maintains the scale's harmonic simplicity and ensures that any combination of notes played will sound pleasant and cohesive.
Characteristics of the Pentatonic Scale
The pentatonic scale is often described as having a heavenly, ethereal quality. It lacks a strong resolution note, which means that there are no discordant notes—everything played or sung sounds harmonious. This quality makes the pentatonic scale ideal for improvisation, where even novice musicians can create beautiful music effortlessly. Historically, the pentatonic scale has been used in various cultures, including Chinese and Asian music, ancient Egyptian and Greek music, and American folk songs. This universal appeal underscores its timeless and soothing nature.
Why Pentatonic Music in Waldorf Education?
Rudolf Steiner, the founder of Waldorf education, recommended pentatonic music for young children due to its ethereal and dreamy quality. Steiner believed that young children, who are still closely connected to the spiritual world, benefit from staying in a dreamy, imaginative state. This approach helps free their energy for physical growth and the development of their imaginations, rather than prematurely engaging their higher intellect through academic learning.
The diatonic scale, commonly found in pop and rock music, is considered too stimulating for young children. It is typically introduced in Waldorf education around the third grade, coinciding with the nine-year change, a significant developmental phase. At this point, children transition from playing a pentatonic flute to learning the diatonic recorder, which aligns with their evolving consciousness.
The Mood of the Fifth
Another important aspect of the pentatonic scale in Waldorf education is the "mood of the fifth." This term refers to the interval of a fifth, five steps up or down from a central note, typically A. This interval is prevalent in many Waldorf classroom songs, such as "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star," which begins with this interval. The mood of the fifth contributes to the scale's soothing and harmonious qualities, further enhancing its suitability for young children.
Bringing Pentatonic Music into the Home
Whether or not your child attends a Waldorf school, you can bring the benefits of pentatonic music into your home. Bella Luna Toys offers various pentatonic instruments, including the kinder harp, pentatonic glockenspiel, and pentatonic flute. These instruments are designed for easy use by children and parents alike, ensuring that whatever is played sounds beautiful and harmonious. The kinder harp, for example, is often used during rest time in Waldorf classrooms. Its open-back design produces a soft, gentle sound, perfect for calming activities or bedtime routines. Similarly, the pentatonic glockenspiel offers a clear, resonant tone, making it an excellent choice for story time or musical play.
For a more affordable option, consider the thumb harp or kalimba, available in both pentatonic and diatonic scales. This simple instrument is played with the thumbs and produces a delightful, melodic sound that children can easily master.
The Importance of Live Music
In Waldorf education, music is viewed as a uniquely human activity that connects us deeply to our creativity and spirit. Playing live music, whether through singing or using instruments, helps children understand that music is made by humans, not just produced electronically. This realization fosters a deeper appreciation for the art of music-making.
Even if you feel you're not musical, pentatonic instruments allow anyone to create beautiful music. Singing with your child, even if imperfect, communicates love and warmth through your voice, which children cherish and remember. In conclusion, the pentatonic scale in Waldorf education serves as a bridge to a world of harmony, creativity, and imagination. By incorporating pentatonic music into your home, you can nurture your child's love for music and support their overall development in a joyful and enriching way. So, keep singing, playing, and making music—the benefits are truly timeless.
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