Journal article

The use of gesture techniques in children's singing

MY Liao, JW Davidson

International Journal of Music Education | SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD | Published : 2007

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to begin to explore the link of gesture and voice when teaching children and to examine how the children used these gestures in singing. Semi-structured interviewing techniques and observation were used extensively to collect information from the respondents. Five children were asked to participate in this preliminary work individually. The results demonstrated that there was a link between children's singing voice and their use of gesture by observing the Dalcrozian mirror and follow games. The functions of gestures could be defined as being for focus, guidance, support, good intonation and sensation. In addition, some specific teaching techniques were required..

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University of Melbourne Researchers