Trinity University of Asia (TUA) recently hosted an insightful seminar on the pedagogical benefits of music in education. Held on April 20, 2024, at the Student Services Center, the half-day Seminar on Progressive Education in Early Childhood (SPEECh) delved into the theme “Music: The Neuropathway to Learning and Well-being.”

Led by Dr. Estrella R. Agustin, head of the Music Therapy Section under the Neurodevelopmental Center of St. Luke’s Medical Center (SLMC), the seminar aimed to explore the transformative role of music in early childhood education. Dr. Agustin provided attendees with an overview of the aesthetic and therapeutic facets of music and its application in specialized educational settings.

During the seminar, participants gained insights into how music serves as a neuropathway to learning and wellness. Dr. Agustin emphasized that music creates a world of sights, sounds, and movement, inviting learners of all ages to explore, discover, and engage with their surroundings. Drawing from the pioneering work of Eric Jensen in brain-based teaching and learning, the seminar highlighted how music primes the brain’s neural pathways to enhance learning outcomes.

A significant focus of the seminar was on music therapy (MT) and its applications across the lifespan. Attendees learned how MT can be utilized to support individuals with physical or emotional challenges, as well as to promote higher levels of awareness and well-being among healthy populations.

The seminar concluded with interactive workshops where participants had the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities. Working in groups, attendees demonstrated their understanding of the Elements of Music, including timbre, rhythm, and melody, as well as the Principle of Movement that encompasses time, space, energy, and flow.

Dr. Teresita Capacete, Dean of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education (CASE) at TUA, welcomed participants from various educational institutions, including St. Joseph’s College of Quezon City, Infant Jesus, International School of Manila, FEU Roosevelt, Cascades School, Good Samaritan Christian School Q.C., KEYS School Manila, Breakthrough Christian Academy, Wisdom Light Christian Academy, and Great Heart School.

The seminar also received active support from education majors at Trinity University of Asia, who contributed to its successful initiation and completion.