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John Curwen

John Curwen was a 19th-century English music educator who developed the Tonic Sol-fa system, a practical method for teaching sight-singing and musical notation. This approach simplifies reading music by using a set of syllables (like Do, Re, Mi) aligned with scale degrees, making it easier to learn and remember melodies. Curwen’s system helped popularize music education, especially in schools, by making singing more accessible and engaging for learners of all ages. His work has had a lasting impact, influencing music teaching practices worldwide.