1a Ward Method Background

Summary

The Ward Method of music education, developed by Justine Ward, is an accessible approach to teaching complex music skills in Catholic schools. The method begins with vocal warm-ups to strengthen the voice and improve pitch accuracy, then progresses to intonation, rhythm exercises, sight-reading, notation, conducting, and composition. It also introduces Gregorian chant in an easy-to-learn way. With a focus on breaking down challenging concepts into simple steps, the Ward Method is effective for both children and adults, providing a solid foundation for learning music.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Ward Method is a music education system developed by Justine Ward, specifically for Catholic schools.
• 😀 It teaches complex music concepts in an easy-to-understand manner, progressing from basic to advanced skills.
• 😀 The method focuses on key musical elements like intonation, rhythm, conducting, sight-reading, notation, and composition.
• 😀 Warm-up exercises are essential to train vocal muscles, improving tone and making singing easier.
• 😀 Intonation exercises help children learn to sing in tune, addressing common pitch issues.
• 😀 Rhythm practice gradually progresses from simple lines and dots to formal music notation.
• 😀 The Ward Method uniquely facilitates teaching Gregorian chant, which is part of its design for Catholic schools.
• 😀 It was developed specifically to cater to the educational needs of Catholic school students.
• 😀 The educator delivering the lesson is certified in all four levels of the Ward Method, having trained at the Catholic University of America.
• 😀 The Ward Method is effective for both children and adults, making it versatile for different age groups.
• 😀 The method is a valuable stepping stone for singing all types of music, providing a fluid and beautiful foundation.

Q & A

What is the Ward method of music education?

The Ward method is a music education system developed by Justine Ward, designed to teach difficult music concepts in an easy-to-understand way. It progresses from basic skills to more advanced ones, including intonation, rhythm, conducting, sight-reading, notation, and composition.

What are some of the key areas taught by the Ward method?

The Ward method teaches intonation (singing in tune), rhythm (counting time and understanding rhythmic patterns), conducting, sight-reading, notation, and composition.

How does the Ward method make complex concepts easier to understand?

The Ward method breaks down complex music concepts into smaller, more digestible parts, making it easier to learn. Lessons are designed to be progressive, starting with basic exercises that gradually build to more advanced skills.

Why are warm-up exercises important in the Ward method?

Warm-up exercises are crucial because they help train the vocal muscles, improving muscle tone and making it easier to perform the rest of the lessons. Without proper warm-ups, students may struggle with intonation and vocal range.

How does the Ward method address singing out of tune?

The Ward method addresses singing out of tune by training the vocal muscles to develop better muscle tone and range, ensuring that students can sing in tune. The exercises progressively improve these skills.

How does the Ward method support rhythm practice?

The Ward method teaches rhythm practice by starting with simple representations, such as lines and dots, and gradually advancing to actual sheet music notation, helping students understand and count rhythms accurately.

Is the Ward method applicable to both children and adults?

Yes, the Ward method can be used with both children and adults. The method is designed to be accessible and effective for learners of all ages.

What is the significance of Gregorian chant in the Ward method?

The Ward method includes a unique approach to teaching Gregorian chant, making it easy to learn. It is the only music education system designed specifically for Catholic schools, with Gregorian chant being a key component.

Who developed the Ward method, and where was it created?

The Ward method was developed by Justine Ward, a Catholic music educator. It was created as an educational tool for Catholic schools, aiming to teach music in a structured and accessible manner.

What certification does the speaker have in the Ward method?

The speaker has a certification in Level 1 of the Ward method from the Catholic University of America, having completed all four levels of training in the method.