Teaching Korean Rhythms in Music Class Through Improvisation, Composition, and Student Performance

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to introduce the characteristics of Korean rhythmic patterns and provide effective ways to teach Korean rhythms based on the theoretical and pedagogical approaches derived from 5,000 years of Korean musical tradition. First, we have provided the fundamental principles of Korean rhythms that represent the culture from which the music originated. Then, we have introduced the pedagogical process of Korean music, which includes the use of gu-em (Korean verbal syllables of music) and improvisatory practice. Finally, we have offered the resource of composition and the schoolwide performance using Korean rhythms that would be suitable to a contemporary educational context. By doing this, music educators will gain an understanding of the characteristics of Korean rhythms and acquire the skills necessary to teach them in the classrooms; as a consequence, they can confidently incorporate Korean rhythms in general music classes.