Introduction
In the ever-evolving world of music education, teachers are consistently searching for new and engaging ways to introduce students to different genres and artists. Such an example is the exploration of the Australian pop duo “Savage Garden,” whose music can offer a unique learning experience and perspective when teaching music appreciation.
The Importance of Savage Garden in Music History
Savage Garden, consisting of Darren Hayes and Daniel Jones, soared to international fame in the late 1990s with their distinctive pop sound. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1997, immediately earned success with hits like “Truly Madly Deeply” and “I Want You.” The duo continued their momentum with their second album, “Affirmation,” in 1999, which featured popular tracks like “I Knew I Loved You” and “Crash and Burn.”
While they may not be as well-remembered as other artists from that era, teaching students about Savage Garden can provide valuable lessons about the diverse nature of pop music. Offering catchy, emotional songs with heartfelt lyrics rooted in love and human experiences, their music serves as a departure point to engage students in discussions on culture, genre fusion, and the impact of music on society.
Strategies for Teaching Savage Garden in the Classroom
1. Song Analysis: Reinforce active listening skills by having students analyze Savage Garden lyrics, identify themes present within their word choice, and explore how these themes relate to other art forms. This practice fosters critical thinking and provides an opportunity for students to develop their interpretation skills.
2. Musical Composition: Encourage students to explore the various elements that give Savage Garden’s songs their distinctive sound. By examining melody, rhythm, harmony, form, tempo, and texture, budding musicians can gain a better understanding of different musical techniques and how they intertwine in producing a captivating tune.
3. Cultural and Historical Context: Discuss the impact Savage Garden had on the music of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Their songs remain highly nostalgic to many, making this a relevant topic that showcases the palpable connection music can have in our lives.
4. Songwriting Activity: Have students try their hand at writing their lyrics or melody based on a song from Savage Garden’s discography. Encourage creativity and self-expression while allowing students to explore different musical styles through an emulation exercise.
5. Inclusivity in Music Education: Open up dialogues around inclusivity by discussing Darren Hayes’ journey of coming out as gay and the subsequent impact it has had on his songwriting, providing insight into perspectives that might not typically be explored in traditional music education.
Conclusion
Teaching students about Savage Garden offers an unconventional but valuable approach to interweaving pop culture into music education. By examining their lyrics, musical compositions, and cultural impact, teachers can provide a unique, engaging learning experience that challenges conventional boundaries in music theory and appreciation, ultimately enriching students’ understanding of the diverse world of music.
