The classification of a song as a Play Song, Art Song or Gem Song can be in the ears of the beholder or the artistry of the children as much as in any formal definition. Generally speaking, the focus of Play Songs is the words. Music is the wrapping paper for the words, which lead engagement with the song. The more musically sophisticated Art Songs draw children into the music, with the sound of the words becoming the timbre intertwining with rhythm and melody. Gem Songs are more musically sophisticated than Play Songs, with words that are more playful than Art Songs.
The classification of any individual song is not the point, but rather, your awareness of the different types of songs so that you can choose appropriate song literature for music learning. Play Songs are immediate. No experience necessary. Children who have been immersed in the various meters and tonalities are ready to become immersed in Art Songs. Children with some experience in Art Songs are ready for Gem Songs in various meters and tonalities.
You might view a song as an Art Song on one occasion and a Gem Song on another. One group of children might receive a Gem Song as an Art Song, totally caught up in its musicality. The most exciting masquerading of song types happens when music development receives Gem Songs as Play Songs—not because the children are led by the words, but because they are led by the musicality of the Gem Song, intertwined with its playful words. It is thrilling to witness children’s artistry raising the level of play to songs of greater and greater musical sophistication. Being musical becomes the play—just as it is for professional musicians.
