Cryptozoologica: Developing the Child as Performer

Music, movement, and imaginative play are essential for young children to explore and understand the world around them. It is important for educators of early primary students to consider how they can facilitate meaningful learning experiences that are practical, engaging, and allow children to investigate unfamiliar musical ideas in supportive, fun environments. This article introduces Cryptozoologica, a new work for flute, viola, and cello with Storyteller by Australian composer Jim Coyle, and describes how educators of young children can use music from a range of cultures and genres, including Western art music, to teach students to physically, cognitively, and imaginatively engage with sounds and stories. It includes the full score of Cryptozoologica and five lessons that encourage listening, movement, and play as a means of embodying musical understanding and knowledge.