is the highest perfection,
the harmony composed
for his praise
should follow
the strictest rules
that perfection can claim,
as far as human imperfection
can realize them."
-- Johann Josef Fux, 1725
Textbook Review
The text is very child friendly and attractive. The brightly colored pictures keep the reader engaged. Simple, clear language promotes independent study and self-teaching strategies that require less adult guidance than traditional music texts. The structure of the lessons mirrors many researched based principles that apply to effective instruction for children. There is the introduction of the objectives, presentation of symbols and music vocabulary, then guided and independent practice and review of concepts and skills. This similarity is highly useful because the format will be familiar for the school age child who is also learning reading and math concepts in a similar context.
-Review by Serena Edwards, M.Ed., School Principal, Cleveland Schools 1997-2006, K-8 Educator/Administrator & Adjunct Instructor
I love that this program teaches composition to young children. Our home schooled daughter often made up simple melodies on the piano, but without any clear directives nothing much came of it. Dr. Hodge’s method would have greatly helped her to create melodic songs with a clear beginning and end from her creative ramblings.
Our culture, including the Christian community, has not done well at cultivating originality; yet one quality of being created in the image of God is creativity. We demonstrate a feature of our creator God through our creativity. This program could help raise up a generation of budding composers who write to the glory of God.
Dr. Mark Hamilton
Professor of Philosophy and NCAA Faculty Representative
Ashland University
Elder – Providence Church
Board Chair of the Institute of Principled Policy