HISTORICAL FOUNDATIONS
(A Brief Overview)

Evidence from ancient artifacts and from all contemporary cultures underlines the point that making music is a regular pastime of man, and probably one of his earliest accomplishments.

In primitive societies music fulfills a basic function as an accessible agent of tribal tradition, aesthetic meaning and personal expression in which all participate.

Evidence exists that the original structure of Greek education was built on music and gymnastics, although music and poetry were considered one art. Music was for the soul, while gymnastics were prescribed for the body. Characteristic instruments of the Greeks were the lyre and the cithara (string) and the aulos (oboe‑like). The Greeks felt that there is a form of education in which the students (boys) should be trained, not because it is useful or necessary, but as being liberal and noble.....the point is proved by music.

Middle Ages.....6th century Boethius prepared five texts (De Musica ) and these along with ancient manuscripts provided the point of reference for the music curriculum in the cathedral and monastery schools. At this time, music was studied as a pure science, not requiring any understanding or skill in performance areas. Rise of the troubadours and trouveres was a manifestation of the power of secular trend in music.

Renaissance.....With the rise of Protestantism, the necessity for universal music education became more evident. Luther and Calvin supported the idea of vernacular schools that would enable the common people to interpret scriptures and become good citizens.