Тhe Methodological Applicability of Traditional Folk Songs from the Area of Novi Pazar in the Development of Elementary Music Literacy

Abstract

Folk songs of the region where the classes are held should be the central content of teaching elementary music literacy in Serbia. However, in Novi Pazar area, as is the case with some other parts of the country, teachers usually do not use this music material because, due to the lack of interest of music pedagogues, it has not been researched from the aspect of elementary music literacy and it cannot be found easily in the methodological and textbook literature. On the other hand, teachers during their studies, despite mastering several subjects in the field of music, are not sufficiently trained to select and adapt songs from ethno-musicological records to the needs of teaching music literacy and children’s vocal abilities at this age. The aim of this research is to create basic music material that meets the methodological criteria for developing elementary music literacy in Novi Pazar region, bearing in mind the multiculturalism of the region and the fact that we should start with melodies that children are familiar with, namely, the folk songs of their cultural heritage. The method of theoretical analysis and descriptive method were used in the paper. The results of the research show that only 44 (4.34%) out of 1013 recorded songs of this region are applicable in teaching elementary music literacy. We adapted these songs to children’s vocal abilities using transposition, elimination of melismatics, and modeling, in accordance with the methodological and biological framework of vocal maturity during vocal development, and for the needs of developing elementary music literacy. According to the given parameters and indicators, we obtained 5 model songs based on folk heritage and additional 39 songs which could be used for the purpose of introduction to the initial music literacy.

Keywords

• folk songs
• music literacy
• the area of novi pazar