The aim of this article is to analyze discourse from historically pertinent policy and strategic documents of the Norwegian Schools of Music and Performing Arts, in order to explore the nature of the intractable discrepancy between curriculum, policy, and practice. Popular music has long been part of Norwegian compulsory-school and higher music…

Highlights characteristics of arts education in Norway, especially with regard to music education. Discusses arts education policy issues such as School Reform 97, the aesthetic dimension, and the idea of the core curriculum. Observes how these different policy issues affected arts education and music/dance education in particular. (CMK)

Introduces articles from a symposium about arts education in three Scandinavian countries (Norway, Sweden, and Denmark). Explains that the articles portray the relevant contexts for arts education, including the prevailing movements in arts education over the past century, general contents of the educational system, and the values and traditions…