An Adaptation of the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music for Public Schools
Powell, Linda T. - Volume: 11
This article presents an adaptation of The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (BMGIM) that was developed by a music educator for use with children, ages eight through twelve, in seven schools in the Atlanta Public School System. Over a span of nine years involving hundreds of children, small groups and classrooms of students were introduced to, and experienced imagery during short pieces of classical music. Issues explored through this method included finding a safe place, dealing with emotions, managing interpersonal relationships, focusing attention, decreasing performance anxiety, and allowing creative expression. The paper includes an in-depth description of this BMGIM adaptation including preparation, inductions, music, and children’s responses.
Key words: Bonny Method of Guided Imagery, school children, performance anxiety, interpersonal relationships, attention, creative expression.