Scaffolding the Dalcroze Approach

Abstract

Individualized instruction and differentiation are fundamental concepts of the Dalcroze approach to music education. Émile Jaques-Dalcroze believed that students learn to be musical by different modalities. His three core branches, eurhythmics, rhythmic solfège, and improvisation, are intertwined with active listening, positive self-expression, and joy to create a learning environment that fuels music creativity. His followers continued his work by developing lessons, clarifying concepts, and sharing knowledge. This article offers insight to Jaques-Dalcroze’s background, a description of the three core branches, and a scaffolded lesson based on Dalcroze’s approach to student-centered music education.