Sure Start Speke

Sure Start Speke is working in partnership with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic for the next 12 weeks. This is not just a project aimed at having fun although I think you can see from the photos that the children and parents who attended certainly did have a lovely time.

The staff were using techniques developed by Zoltán Kodály (1882-1967). Kodály was born in Hungary at a time when its language and culture was subservient to German and Austrian tradition. He developed his own musical compositions inspired by Hungarian melody and folklore and works like Háry Janos, Psalmus Hungaricus, and Dances of Galanta have found a home in concert halls all over the world.

Kodály is viewed by many as the greatest music educationalist of the twentieth century and his musical innovations and teaching methods have gained world recognition. For more information visit www.britishkodalyacademy.org

Throughout the 12 weeks the children and parents will be:

    Exploring and recognising how sounds can be changed
    Developing the ability to listen, silently and attentively
    Singing simple songs from memory
    Match movements to music
    Recognising repeated sounds and sound patterns

Through the use of music we will also impact on the children's achievement in their early learning goals we expect that the sessions will help children to:

    Improve their listening skills and concentration
    Through the singing and interaction develop their language skills and social skills,
    Improve their physical well being through the movement sessions
    Improve their mathematical development through the creation of musical patterns
    Develop their creativity through the use of music and movement

Finally, Kodály would argue that "Music should be accessible to everyone", and who are we to argue with a world renowned expert.

One of the outcomes children told us they want is to "enjoy and achieve". These sessions are a great way to help children to achieve whilst having lots of fun and enjoyment, keeping up with our outstanding reputation of promoting learning through fun activities.

If our pilot is successful we hope to roll out a programme of musical activity - for more information please contact Mandy Murphy on 425 4028.

The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic are also running a First Note session on Wednesday 14th February for 3-5 year olds (cost £4.50) log on to liverpoolphil.com for more information.