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The Impact of Music on Language & Early Literacy:
A Research Summary In Support of Kindermusik’s ABC Music & Me

The Impact of Music on Language & Early Literacy:
A Research Summary In Support of Kindermusik’s ABC Music & Me
Introduction Early childhood classroom teachers believe in the power of music to engage children. What scientifically based research supports the use of music and musical instruction to build early literacy skills? This research summary answers that question, providing support to educators who wish to integrate music and musical instruction into their early language and literacy programs in schools. This research summary reviews high-quality experimental studies conducted in classrooms with young children receiving music education, plus relevant brain research that focuses on the impact of musical instruction on the brain. The impact of music and musical instruction on early language and literacy development for young children is examined in the following areas: • Reading Comprehension and Verbal Memory • Listening Skills • Vocabulary, including for English Language Learners • Phonological and Phonemic Awareness • Writing and Print Awareness • Impact on Children with Disabilities • Family Involvement The research summarized below provides strong support for including music and musical instruction in the early childhood classroom. Importantly, this recommendation is made not just for the value of the musical experience itself, but also because of the impact music and musical instruction can have on young children’s development of language and early literacy. Music Instruction & Reading Scores Linked Reading comprehension is seen as “the essence of reading” (Durkin, 1993) and the desired outcome of reading instruction, including the focus of assessment on standardized reading tests starting in third grade. Comprehension is defined as “intentional thinking during which meaning is constructed through interactions

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