Connecting Music and Mathematics in Classrooms

Summary of Perger, Trinick & Major (2021)

Background & Existing Knowledge

Research suggests that music and mathematics share fundamental connections, such as patterns, rhythm, and sequencing, which aid cognitive development.

New Insights from This Study

✔ Music helps reinforce mathematical patterns and logical reasoning.
✔ Songs and chants significantly improve memory retention of math concepts.
✔ An interdisciplinary approach enhances engagement and motivation among students.

Practical Applications: How Educators Can Use This Research

1. Interdisciplinary Lesson Planning

📌 Use rhythmic clapping to teach multiplication tables.
📌 Encourage students to create songs for mathematical properties.
📌 Incorporate music-based word problems in lessons.

 2. Creating Inclusive Classrooms

📌 Use musical storytelling to explain mathematical concepts.
📌 Conduct group music exercises to build classroom collaboration.
📌 Adapt songs for different learning levels to make math accessible.

3. Developing Psychomotor Skills

📌 Integrate drumming activities to reinforce counting and sequencing.
📌 Use dance-based exercises to teach shapes and symmetry.
📌 Encourage hand-movement activities in rhythm exercises to improve fine motor coordination.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes that combining music and mathematics fosters conceptual understanding, engagement, and classroom inclusivity.

Reference

Perger, P., Trinick, R., & Major, K. (2021). More than counting beats: Connecting music and mathematics in the primary classroom. Educational Journal, 19(3), 45-59.

Suggested Citation

Ross, E. M., & Malar, D. B. J. (2025). Connecting Music and Mathematics. Excellent Educator, 2(4), 6.