Introduction:
The medieval period, also known as the Middle Ages, was a remarkable time for musical development, with the creation of numerous musical instruments that continue to influence modern music today. As educators, it is important to shed light on these unique pieces of history and engage our students in the fascinating world of medieval instruments. This article focuses on various aspects of teaching students about medieval instruments, including their classification, materials used, and necessary historical context.
Classification of Medieval Instruments:
Medieval instruments can be broadly categorized into three primary groups: stringed instruments, wind instruments, and percussion instruments. To help students understand the differences between these categories and explore variations within each group, educators should provide visuals and examples of different medieval instruments such as lutes and viols for stringed instruments, recorders and shawms for wind instruments, and tambourines and nakers for percussion instruments.
Materials Used in Crafting Medieval Instruments:
Students should be made aware of the materials used in making these ancient musical devices. Wood was a common material for many stringed and wind instruments due to its availability and acoustic qualities. Animal skins were often utilized for percussion membranes and instrument strings; even materials such as ivory or metals like brass were incorporated into instrument designs. Educators can aid in illustrating how scarcity or regional availability of materials contributed to variations in instrument appearance or construction across differing civilizations during the medieval era.
Historical Context:
Teaching students about the historical context surrounding these musical relics is pivotal to helping them understand their significance. The medieval period covers a wide expanse of history from roughly 500 CE to 1500 CE; during this timeframe, many social changes transpired including shifts in religious beliefs, political boundaries, economic advancements, and cultural developments. By imparting students with knowledge concerning minstrels who would travel between courts playing traditional songs, or monks who composed sacred choral music, educators can divulge the important role medieval instruments played in daily life, and their relevance to historical events that shaped music throughout the centuries.
Modern Relevance:
Lastly, it is vital to highlight the continuing impact of these ancient innovations on modern musical instruments. Showcasing the evolution of medieval instruments into today’s commonly utilized tools can intrigue students and further motivate their interest in history. For instance, demonstrating how the lute has transformed into the guitar, or how recorders are still employed in education and folk music, can foster an appreciation for these antiquated instruments’ enduring legacy.
Conclusion:
Teaching students about medieval instruments not only enhances their understanding of music history but encourages an admiration for cultural heritage and promotes critical thinking about historical context. By addressing classification, materials, history, and modern-day relevance in a captivating manner, educators can instill a deep-rooted appreciation for these wondrous pieces of musical ancestry.
