Émile Jaques–Dalcroze (1865-1950) was a Swiss composer, improviser and music educator. He developed the Dalcroze Eurhythmics method in the early 20^th century and it focuses on physical movement involving the whole body as a way of expressing and learning about music. This very creative approach to music education is useful for all ages.

In Dalcroze Eurhythmics, rhythm, structure and musicianship are understood through using movement. Eurhythmics means ‘good rhythm’ and the defining disciplines that are important in this training are Rhythmics (experiencing music through movement), Solfa (aural training based on the Kodály Method), and instrumental and vocal improvisation. Rhythmics involves the whole body and teaches the student to remember activities and feelings that will become especially useful later when they move onto singing and playing. Their aural perception and ability becomes especially acute as does their sense of rhythm and coordination. The pupil can also develop a larger capability for concentration and memory whilst training with this method.

The positive advantages of this system include increasing confidence, communication skills, the capacity to feel music through the whole body, and a greater facility for creativity and expression.

The benefits of this can be felt not just in music but throughout the arts where movement is important; dancing, acting, musical theatre, and the circus as well as an increasing appreciation of other arts such as painting and sculpture.

Extract from my book, So You Want To Play The Piano?, published by Alfred Music.

Publications

Melanie Spanswick has written and published a wide range of courses, anthologies, examination syllabuses, and text books, including Play it again: PIANO (published by Schott Music). This best-selling graded, progressive piano course contains a large selection of repertoire featuring a huge array of styles and genres, with copious practice tips and suggestions for every piece.

For more information, please visit the publications page, here.