Describes how a local symphony orchestra changed its educational program for children to improve attendance and heighten music appreciation. Discusses the rationale for the new approach and includes descriptions of themes. Concludes that music appreciation programs must identify and utilize various motivational approaches. (CFR)

Describes a summer school program in which secondary students collaborated to build an opera company. Details the activities of seven days in the first stage of the three-stage project. Concludes that the experience built democratic values. (CFR)

Describes a college level course in opera for nonmusic education students. Contends that students benefited from the enriching experience of the course. Includes a list of 10 operas recommended for an introductory course. (CFR)

Contends that the question of whether to audition students for participation in elementary choirs is a difficult decision. Discusses the advantage and disadvantages of each choice. Concludes that the decision must be made according to educational objectives and the rationale for establishing the choir. (CFR)

Describes a middle school program in which students create and produce an original opera. Describes the interdisciplinary learning acquired as students created music, dialog, sets, and costumes. Contends that the project was an exciting and rewarding experience for students and teachers. (CFR)

Contends that teaching music history has traditionally focused on five eras of Western music. Relates these periods to concepts of form, space, and understanding. Acknowledges that music education has been ethnocentric and recommends a more universal music education. (CFR)

Describes the production of operas in a second-grade classroom. Explains how the project requires an interdisciplinary approach to learning. Contends that elementary, secondary, and even higher education students would benefit from this activity. (CFR)

Describes a school districtwide program in which secondary students produced operas as part of the regular and extracurricular curricula. Details events dating from 1985 illustrating the growth and development of the program. Contends that the program was an intellectually rewarding experience and an excellent public relations activity for the…

Recommends strategies for building and retaining audience interest in musical concerts. Discusses the design of a concert program and the placement of types of musical pieces. Concludes that student ensembles are directly affected by the way conductors present and rehearse the music. (CFR)

Addresses choral music directors' concerns about ways in which trained and untrained audiences hear and evaluate choral music performances. Considers differing responses to two musical selections. Confirms listening skills are teachable. Offers suggestions for improving listening skills, emphasizing structure in formal auditory training. (CH)