Finding the right songs for children to sing is a wonderful way to foster their love for music and strengthen your bond as a family. As a vocal coach and published songwriter, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is for children to connect emotionally with the music they perform. Through my singing workshops and birthday singing and songwriting parties, I help children discover the joy of music in a fun and engaging way. Here are some insights on how parents can choose songs that resonate with their kids.
### 1. Choosing Songs with Emotional Depth
When selecting songs, look for ones that convey deeper meanings or themes that children can relate to. Children can grasp and appreciate emotional layers when given the chance.
For example, during a recent singing workshop, we sang "How Far I’ll Go" from Moana. Before diving into the song, we took time to talk about its themes of determination and self-discovery. This discussion allowed the children to connect personally with the lyrics, giving their performance a sense of authenticity.
One girl sang the first verse softly, with careful control, which matched the vulnerability of the lyrics. As the song moved toward the pre-chorus and chorus, her voice grew stronger, allowing the emotional intensity to rise with the music. The performance became a journey, and everyone could feel the determination behind the words. This moment showed how understanding the meaning of the song can help young singers naturally bring more emotion into their performance. My Kids' singing workshops/parties are great for this as it allows children to take chances and try things in a very supportive setting.
### 2. Reading the Song Before Singing
A great way to help children connect with the meaning of a song is to read it out loud before they start singing. This method allows them to really think about the lyrics and what the song is trying to say. In my singing parties we do this and highlight parts of the song so that we remember what we want to emphasize.
When children read the lyrics without music, they can highlight or note which sections feel softer and more introspective and which ones feel powerful or intense. By understanding these shifts in emotion, they can bring more depth to their performance. This technique also helps them decide how they might want to sing certain parts — perhaps quietly at the beginning and building up as the song progresses, just like the girl in the Moana workshop.
### 3. Choosing Songs for Auditions
If your child is preparing for an audition, selecting the right song is key. An effective audition piece should not only reflect an emotional connection but also showcase your child’s vocal abilities.
For musical theatre auditions, it’s important to choose songs that are relevant to your child's casting age. Look for pieces that allow young singers to convey different emotions while demonstrating their vocal range and technique. Choosing an age-appropriate song helps children feel confident in both their performance and their ability to connect to the character.
### 4. Creating Meaningful Musical Experiences
Ultimately, finding and singing meaningful songs together helps foster a deeper emotional connection between parents and children. Whether through workshops, singing parties, or casual singing at home, when children connect to the meaning behind the music, their confidence and joy in performing grow.
By encouraging your child to read lyrics aloud, reflect on their meaning, and choose songs that resonate with them, you can create an environment where music feels personal and powerful. This shared musical journey can lead to memorable moments and a lasting love for singing.
If your child enjoys singing or songwriting they may love one of my singing or songwriting parties! Based in Sevenoaks, I offer fun and creative workshops that bring music to life in a unique and engaging way.
Stay tuned for my next blog, where I will start highlighting some great song choices for kids to sing!
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