Last month, a friend, knowing that I am a Classical Music enthusiast, asked me of any resources that she could use to introduce her children to classical music. I proceeded to list off a few series of composer's biographies that my children enjoy. My friend stopped me in mid-list and said that she didn't want to fill her kids' heads with information at this time, she wanted more for them to feel the music from their hearts, rather than their heads. This stopped my in my tracks. I had an argument for this but, true to form, the thoughts were trapped in my head and wouldn't flow out of my mouth.
I understand what my friend was saying but I don't agree with her. The way that she is using the term 'information' is in having discombobulated, ramdom facts floating around in your head for no apparent reason. I do not want information for my children either but I do want them to have knowledge. I see the two as different. Whereas information is impersonal facts flying around with no roots; knowledge is information that is connected with our senses. Knowledge adds to our understanding of an area. Knowledge is multi-dimensional. Knowledge can reach our hearts and make learning an experience.
Let me give you an example. When studying Beethoven you are, of course, going to listen to his music. I think it is also important to read about his life and his struggles as that lends to the feelings of his music. When you read about his deafness and the challenges that he endured due to that disability, amazement is present when you listen to the results of those challenges. Reading about his family struggles also adds to your impressions as you listen to the beauty of his music, as well as the stormy selections. The information, when added to the music, changes your perspective on Beethoven as well as his music. It adds richness and meaning to an otherwise static job of just listening. The information when combined with the senses, layers your understanding of Beethoven. This, in my opinion, is how to enjoy Classical Music. Don't just get one side of the subject, but strive for a multi-dimensional experience by adding knowledge, rather than just random facts.
Julia lives on the Canadian Prairies with her husband, homeschooling her 3 children (10,8,6) and is attempting to give them a Classical Education. You can read more at her blog.
