How playing the piano can improve your English pronunciation

In order to improve English pronunciation, it is important not only to memorize the pronunciation of words, but also to be aware of intonation and rhythm. Because the mechanisms of pronunciation are very different between Japanese and English, Japanese children need special training to naturally acquire English pronunciation. One such training is known to be highly effective in learning the piano. In this article, we will explain how learning the piano can improve English pronunciation and introduce the specific lesson content at our school.

1. Characteristics of English Pronunciation

Japanese is made up of fixed units of beats called “mora,” and is basically spoken with a flat rhythm. On the other hand, English has a rhythm called “stress timing,” with a clear division between parts that are pronounced strongly and parts that are pronounced weakly. For example, in the phrase “I want to go to the park,” words with meanings such as “want,” “go,” and “park” are emphasized, while functional words such as “to” are pronounced weakly. Acquiring this rhythm naturally is the key to sounding like English.

2. The effect of the piano on pronunciation

Playing the piano is a continuous training of producing sounds while understanding rhythm and intonation. In particular, music has “strong beats” and “weak beats,” and by being aware of this when playing a song, you can acquire the same sense of stress timing as in English. Also, singing while playing the piano makes you sensitive to changes in pitch, making it easier to naturally learn English intonation.

3. How to improve your pronunciation through playing the piano

The following are some of the ways that learning piano can affect your English pronunciation.
Improved sense of rhythm: English rhythm and musical rhythm have things in common, so learning piano helps you acquire the ability to correctly grasp the rhythm of language.
Improved intonation: By singing while playing the piano, you can experience the changes in pitch in English and acquire natural intonation.
Improved pronunciation: Piano practice requires the ability to distinguish small differences in sound. Improving this ability makes it easier to notice subtle differences in English pronunciation.

4. Our School Initiatives

Our school uses the piano to provide lessons that help students acquire English pronunciation naturally. Specific content includes the following approaches:
Singing English songs with piano accompaniment: Students are taught to acquire pronunciation naturally while being conscious of the rhythm and intonation of English.
Rhythm training: Students acquire native-like pronunciation by speaking English sentences in rhythm.
Pronunciation practice with an awareness of sound stress: Students utilize the dynamics of the piano to develop the ability to correctly express English stress.

Summary

By learning the piano, you will naturally acquire the sense of rhythm and intonation necessary for English pronunciation. Our school offers lesson programs that make the most of the synergistic effects of English and music to help your child improve their pronunciation. Why not have fun learning the piano while acquiring native-like pronunciation?