Piano Lessons by Sophi

Benefits of Solfege

Sophi has adopted the universal language of music which consists of Do, Re, Mi- solfege syllables. It is important to understand that solfege is not a method but a language which names the notes with syllables Do, Re, Mi instead of letters A, B, C.

Solfege syllables – Do, Re, Mi are worldwide music notations that started in the 10th century (1100's) by the Italian monk Guido d’Arezzo for the purpose to teach other monks in the monastery to chant Gregorian chants. It was a pedagogical technique that was created by Guido d'Arezzo and it is a truly universal language of music.

Benefits of learning musical notation with solfege syllables:

It is important to understand that musicianship involves not only playing but also vocal and auditory apparatus involved with playing.

With Solfege syllables, the student first sings music in his/her mind and then plays the music. Meaning, the students learn to connect the notes they see with the music they will play on the piano. Letter notes, such as A, B, C are completely non-musical because they are not singable, unnatural and awkward.

 

• Reading music with solfege syllable is easier because of the natural process of hearing music first in the mind by looking at the score and then reproducing what is seen in the music into playing.

• Solfege syllables help students with composing. Hearing music in one’s mind, remembering it and then writing notation –is the process used when composing music.

• Most importantly reading notes with solfege syllables will help the student develop a perfect pitch. This is the most important musical skill that teaches a particular note with its name, connecting it to a hearing brain, voice and then playing. 

* If parents and students want to learn the letter system for naming the notes instead of solfege syllables then Sophi will teach students that way. Solfege notation is a preferred way of teaching students to play piano and sing because of the benefits mentioned above. However, it is not the only way to teach if parents object to it.