From Web-based software to smartboards to the omnipresent MP3 player, technology can revolutionize the way children create, comprehend, and master music. Best yet, proponents say, technology is often able to light a spark among students who otherwise might be turned off by more traditional music education practices. None of this is a major…

Every day, music teachers face the challenge of motivating less-confident student singers in general music classes. Teaching vocal improvisation can be a difficult task, because students are often self-conscious about their voices and too intimidated to sing in front of their peers. Technology can be an excellent motivational tool in the classroom…

Maintains that commissioning musical works is almost as old as music itself and that it is a privilege to premiere a work that has been composed specifically for you and your chorus. Describes the approaches that classroom music teachers used to commission musical works. Includes seven guidelines. (CFR)

Examines which types of music and musical activities capture the interests of young children and involve them in music making. Presents general guidelines from five music educators for finding appropriate music materials. Includes a list of recommended recordings and music/activity books. (CFR)

Maintains that string playing, rhythm, pitch, and tone quality are all dependent on the movement and coordination of the player. Presents a rhythmic focus lesson plan for students who need improvement in rhythm skills. Includes a lesson plan diagram and suggested teacher resources. (CFR)

Observes that students participate in a band program for a variety of reasons. Some students love music, some are involved in many different activities, others enjoy the performance aspect, and some simply want to socialize. Maintains that a successful band program needs to accommodate these various agendas. (MJP)

Maintains that many educators are using sequences to create accompaniments and practice tapes geared to student abilities. Describes musical instruction using Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI). Discusses eight suggestions designed to make the process of sequencing more efficient. (CFR)

Reports on interdisciplinary instructional techniques in music education for young children recommended by seven music educators. Maintains that young children especially benefit from an interdisciplinary approach. Concludes that teachers should not lose sight of music education objectives while reinforcing other learning. (CFR)

Identifies several sets of criteria starting band directors can use to overcome common pitfalls. These include helpful hints on repertoire selection, rehearsal procedures, and setting realistic expectations. Concludes with a look at "the big picture," a list of suggested themes for concerts. (MJP)

Maintains that it is difficult to recruit and retain male students into vocal music programs. Asserts that if student attitudes are shaped positively in the early grades, it is more likely that male students will continue to participate. Provides five suggestions for recruiting male students at the middle and secondary grade levels. (CFR)

Reports on interviews with three music educators about interdisciplinary teaching methods. Asserts that students' musical curiosity must be satisfied to help create well-rounded musicians. Includes a teaching example demonstrating the three basic physical characteristics of sound. (CFR)

Maintains that choral programs' need for accompanists provides a learning opportunity for student musicians. Discusses the problems inherent in this relationship. Recommends forming an accompanist class that meets once a week after school and works on specific skills. (MJP)

Provides suggestions for encouraging elementary students to join and continue participation in school choral music groups. Recommends focusing on male students because they are the most difficult to recruit. Also suggests having a high school choral group come to the elementary school to help with recruitment. (CFR)

Recommends turning some of the more tedious aspects of elementary instrumental rehearsals (particularly playing scales) into games. Describes a number of educational games that can be constructed around these activities, including a "Wheel of Fortune" parody. (MJP)

Maintains that the collegiate chapters of the Music Educators National Conference act as an excellent training ground for student leaders. Recommends continuing the support and guidance for these students to emerge as leading teachers. Provides specific advice for MENC chapter advisors on fostering support and independence. (MJP)