1. Music technology helps improve understanding of music theory.

“You can use it [Logic Pro] to teach students practically any subject, especially the use of dynamics, in a practical way. “J Clarke BDA, Head of Music.

The plug-in and automation features in Logic Pro and most music programs allow students to understand classic terms such as crescendo and diminuendo in an interactive platform. The automation tools also provide a level of interaction during the process, since they are able to control the dynamics according to each section and instrument. Plug-in controls like attack, release, sustain, and decay help students visually interact with terms like staccato, legato, and accent; all essential tools when creating a highly expressive composition.

2. Develops performance, composition and organization skills through an integrated approach.

“You can allow them [students] to access compositional and arranging techniques in a creative way from an early age. “M Barbe, MBP Head of Music.

When composing a song with an acoustic instrument, it can be challenging to write parts of the composition, in addition to arranging different sections, without an understanding of the compositional structure and the ability to play a musical instrument. Using software solutions such as GarageBand, students can replace these requirements by accessing a world of instrumental loops and samples, whereby students can listen to, cut and paste multiple samples to begin building their own composition. The software allows students to use the interface as a canvas for their creations; visually manipulate melody, harmony, rhythm, shape and timbre.

3. Discover hidden talents within the classroom.

“I think the main benefit of using music technology in a classroom is the fact that students are exposed to unlimited resources and possibilities to use as a platform for their creativity.” L Neckles SHHS, Head of Music.

You never know how good you are until you get tested. Music technology is a means by which students can discover skills that they did not know they had. The use of music software such as Soundation4Education allows the student to think critically, make independent decisions, and make cognitive judgments in the music production process. Presenting a variety of musical opportunities provides the opportunity to raise self-esteem, increase a student’s levels of motivation, and allow them to use their creative abilities for a career in industry.

4. Music technology can push the boundaries of music and enrich music lessons for students and teachers alike.

“… The opportunity to learn music is a basic human right that should be equally available to children who attend schools.” John Brockhouse, Author, Getting Better All The Time: Using Music Technology for Students with Special Needs. Australian Journal of Music Education

Children from the early years to the musically inept, gifted, and disabled can access music through technology. Musical performance on a traditional instrument often depends solely on the skill of the user. However, with technological equipment such as drum pads, synthesizers and electro-acoustic instruments, illustrious samples and mind-blowing sounds can be played with the touch of a finger or the click of a button. Assisted music technology devices, such as Band in a Box or Soundbeam, can be used in such a way that students with physical disabilities participate in the musical performance experience as part of a group; but they also help keep students interested in music education. Without access technology offerings, higher education in music may remain closed to students with physical and mental disabilities.

5. Music technology allows students to extend their learning and creativity outside of the classroom.

“Using music technology software helps remove certain learning barriers for students. It doesn’t matter if you are able to play an instrument or not, nor does it depend on your musical ability.” S Wagstaff, SBI Head of Music

Music technology is a fairly new skill, especially for elementary school students. With Soundation4Education, students can access music production software outside of the classroom without having to pay the expensive price of music production software. Today, online music software is significantly cheaper compared to the cost of buying long-term musical instruments and music lessons. Through Internet access, students can develop music production skills by watching the wide range of music producer tutorials from the comfort of their bedroom.

Conclution

To conclude, music technology is the way to go. Music technology is a great way to teach composition, arrangement, and basic music theory to an entire class. Many schools have started embracing the benefits of technology, as can be seen through programs like Proclassic and the level of IT capital invested in London schools (£ 450 million in 2013 according to Gov Today). However, there needs to be greater access to CPD teacher training in music technology, so that schools understand how to use the software not as an addition to the music curriculum, but to incorporate it as a tool to enable a increased learning and understanding. and as a tool to facilitate greater access to music theory and performance skills.