People learn how to speak before they can read or write.
The skill of speech begins to manifest after 18 months of imitation.
A child begins to learn the process of writing one letter at a time between the ages of 3 and 6. This begins the process of translation and phonation of written letter symbols.
Between 5 and 8 years a child may learn to write a word, then two words, then three, and so on as; they begin the processes to read and write sentences.
It takes a definitive seven years for the skills of literacy to develop to the point of independent competency, where the child is able to participate freely and confidently of their own volition with great pride in their ability to perform the basic skills of reading, writing, and speaking (full circle).
This is a seven year process that coordinates the necessary skills of literacy, serving a child’s independent day to day creation, expression, and experience.
Beginner 4th and 5th grade instrumentalists are in their infancy of literacy; a sacred and magical time that should be cultivated, nurtured, and cherished for at least 2 years through positive and creative development in service of their individuality and the discovery of their own unique voice through creation, imitation, experience, coordination, and competency of musical literacy skills. “Formal”concerts can wait; performance should reflect a folk community “show and tell” celebration.
“Students” need to know from the very beginning, they are talented musicians and artists, their sound is valuable, unique, and cherished right away. Their sound is the music from the very beginning.
speak, write, read, write, speak
– JC Heisler