Singing and Musical Traditions in Icelandic and Estonian Childhoods

• Main Authors: Gudmundsdottir, Helga R., Kiilu, Kristi
• Format: Book Part
• Language: unknown
• Published: Oxford University Press 2023
• Subjects: Iceland
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780190927523.013.23; https://academic.oup.com/edited-volume/55204/chapter/426532223

Abstract Childhood singing in Iceland and Estonia is the main focus of this chapter. As the background histories of the two countries are recounted, the role of societal structures in forming children´s musical and educational environment is explored. Highlights from early childhood music research in the wider region of the Nordic, Scandinavian, and Baltic countries until this date are summarized in the chapter, ranging from research in spontaneous singing and music-making to meticulously constructed music programs in preschools, as well as methods for encouraging musical parenting. Interestingly, Estonia developed under Soviet rule, while Iceland was affected by Western influences. Comparisons between the two countries indicate that family policies and cultural traditions play a strong role in forming the appearance of childhood singing and traditions. A final conclusion is that singing seems fundamental to childhoods across cultures albeit variable in its expression.