Play is prominent in different African cultures and the over-all African context, where we frequently discover elements of play when people engage with music and dance activities. There are three types of play in children’s culture, namely tradition, open and original play. It is very important for learners to engage in teaching and learning activities which include principles of play because they are able to develop holistically through engagement in authentic, meaningful activities. Through play, foundation phase learners develop cognitively by developing their problem-solving skills and learn about cause and effect while also experiencing cognitive growth.

Characteristics of musical play

• Play is personally motivated
• Play is active
• Play is often nonliteral
• Play has no extrinsic goals
• Players supply meaning to the play
• Play has no extrinsic rules

Play in the classroom has several important contributions:

• A sense of belonging and cohesion are enforced
• Group and individual discipline are created in a “friendly” playful environment
• Group and individual discipline are created in a “friendly” playful environment
• Musical play gives the child the opportunity to undergo an imaginative transformation
• Play provides an emotional outlet within the sense of communal belonging.

Seven elements of play

1. Play involves a state of mind and disposition
2. Play contains elements of surprise and challenge
3. Play involves a process, attitude, and structure
4. Play is voluntary and unifying, forming part of the socialising process
5. Play involves aesthetic quality judgement by participants
6. Play creates informal space for socio-historical comment
7. Play reinforces societal roles

Learning and Playing music emphasis:

Passion music inspires children to express themselves more undoubtedly by allowing them to link with their feelings.

Determination being able to perfect a tricky piece of music gives learners a sense of achievement and encourages them to take more difficult tests.

Increased coordination playing and dancing to music helps children develop their motor skills.

Social skills making music with others assists children develop social and emotional abilities.