As musicians, music therapists, and educators, do we realize the amount of storytelling that happens in our classrooms and therapy sessions every day?
Literacy, history, journaling, song lyrics, songwriting...these are all forms of storytelling. Wikipedia defines storytelling as "the conveying of events in words, images, and sounds, often by improvisation or embellishment." The definition of storytelling *screams* music therapy and education to me!
Do you have a friend or colleague that can always gain your rapt attention by the way they tell a story? What makes it so grand? What keeps your attention? Really think about it...you should embody those characteristics in order to engage your audience. Maybe they include the following elements:
- Make eye contact
- Use natural, comfortable gestures and body movements/posture
- The story has a beginning, middle, and end
- The storyteller projects their voice and has an appropriate, pleasing tone
- The storyteller is sincere
- Tells at an appropriate pace
- Enthusiastic
Did you know that St. Louis has the largest storytelling festival in the world? That's right, St. Louis, the WORLD! The St. Louis Storytelling Festival is in May, and I encourage you to hear some stories if you have never been before. Now, I've been several times to this local festival, as my former art teacher (from Kindergarten!!) is a storyteller with this association. :)
Next time you are singing a song, writing a song, or relaying information to a student, remember to put on your storytelling hat! Make each moment worthwhile and engaging!
How do you use storytelling in your therapy sessions or classroom?
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