Colour enhances engagement, clarity, and organization in music
Date
2025
Authors
Mathieson, Alie
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Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University Of Victoria
Abstract
The use of colour in music teaching, learning, and production enhances engagement, comprehension, and organization. Research indicates that colours often correspond to musical elements and emotions—faster, major-key music is linked to warm, bright colours, while slower, minor-key music is associated with cooler, darker tones. Colour-based notation systems, inspired by synesthesia, aid beginners and students with special needs by making abstract concepts more tangible. Methods such as sound painting and the Tobin music system use colour to reinforce musical interpretation, while digital tools apply colour to differentiate sound elements for producers. Studies confirm that colour-coded music learning improves memory and rhythm recognition, though implementation challenges exist. Despite some educators finding it time-intensive, the benefits of colour in music instruction and production are significant, fostering deeper emotional connections and accessibility. By integrating colour systematically—through notation, composition, and digital tools—musicians and educators can create a more immersive and inclusive musical experience.
Description
Keywords
colour, music education, synesthesia, notation, engagement, accessibility