Music Education in Singapore: Learn from the best at GEMS World Academy

Music provides all sorts of mental and physical benefits to children’s development; we find out more about the amazing teachers who head up the music education programme at GEMS World Academy (Singapore)…

How lucky are the kiddos at GEMS World Academy (Singapore)? Early Years students receive guided musical learning throughout the week, while all students in Grades 1-5 receive their own violin or cello in an instrumental string programme.

On top of all that, every GWA student has the opportunity for 1-to-1 music lessons during the school day in their state-of-the-art music studios. It’s all part of GWA’s commitment to holistic learning opportunities, which are a fundamental part of its curriculum.

The world-leading international music school programme is truly at the forefront of this endeavour. We interviewed the heads of the music programme – married instructors Christopher Brandt and Daniela Rodnite – to find out a bit more about their own passion for music and what they bring to the innovative programme at GWA. With degrees from world-renowned music universities Oberlin (Christopher) and Julliard (Daniela), the couple has an amazing background in both classical orchestral music and solo performance. Find out why your kids would be lucky to learn from these virtuosos!

What is the role of a music instructor in a child’s educational development?
The music teacher’s primary goals are three-fold: 1) the introduction of the students to the full spectrum of musical experience, 2) the development of vocal and instrumental skills, and 3) the management and integration of music into daily life of the school.

Why do you personally feel children can benefit from Music instruction?
Music education is of central importance in the development of today’s global citizens. Artistic expression is a basic creative impulse and it is the music teacher’s duty to nurture that creativity from the earliest pre-school years.

You are instrumental (no pun intended!) in GWA’s approach to music classes for children of all ages, even in the early years. Why is this so fundamental?
Students of all ages and levels of ability should be given the opportunity to develop their musical talents and to demonstrate their abilities through regular performances from kindergarten through high school. I really think the collaborative exchanges in music-making can serves as a model for interpersonal relationships throughout each student’s life. Plus, habits of discipline formed with regard to vocal or instrumental performance likewise have a profoundly beneficial and lifelong effect in such critical areas as concentration, time-management, work ethic, and self-improvement.

How does musical performance relate to developing a child’s self-esteem?
The confidence engendered by musical achievement and public performance definitely contributes substantially to healthy levels of self-esteem.

What qualities should parents look for in a good music teacher and programme?
A music educator must be able to impart knowledge with passion and energy with an upbeat and good-humoured approach (this is a must when working with kids!). A successful music teacher creates an atmosphere of mutual respect in which the students’ musicianship is brought to the highest level, and ideally creates a lasting love of the art of music.

Finally, in the school context we believe a fine music programme should foster a harmonious sense of well-being in the school as a whole.

Thank you, Daniela and Christopher! To find out more about the world class arts programme at GEMS World Academy (Singapore), visit their website to arrange a personal tour of their state-of-the-art campus!

GEMS World Academy (Singapore), 2 Yishun Street 42, Singapore 768039, Tel: (+65) 6808 7300
www.gwa.edu.sg