This article presents a field-tested approach for integrating music arranging into middle and high school music ensembles. This project-based unit of study builds on scholarship in informal music learning and social constructivism. Reflections from former high school students who participated in the project help illuminate these connections. The…

This article introduces some of the practices in which various poststructuralist authors engage and suggests applications for music education. First, an explanation of how some poststructuralist authors embrace exclusions and how music educators might draw on such thinking and action is offered. Second, the article articulates various…

A common desire among music educators is to help students develop the ability to reflect on and evaluate their own music making. To achieve this goal, music educators often provide their students with a variety of instructional activities, such as watching their ensemble's latest concert performance and writing a critical review of it, allowing…

Sponsoring a student teacher is a tremendous responsibility for a mentor. It is a vitally important time in the life of the prospective teacher, so the teacher needs to carefully consider all aspects of being a mentor. Preparing for a student teacher to come into the classroom is somewhat like preparing for a new family member: everyone must…

Addresses the fundamental nature of improvisation in the music-learning process. Identifies practical techniques for incorporating improvisation as a part of all music classes and offers criteria for teachers and students to use while evaluating improvisations. States that the techniques offer a means for creating an environment conducive to risk…

The author discusses the drain on the energy of the school band director who is expected to direct the school pep band at night for athletic events and the concert band during the day. He offers a solution: small pep bands made up of volunteers and conducted by students. (KC)

The author cautions against using a professional concert format for the high school ensemble concert, for they have different audiences and different goals. He suggests a number of ways for making the school ensemble concert a rewarding experience for all involved. (KC)

Discusses the use of rubrics in the music classroom, focusing on a description of rubrics, using rubrics for writing assignments and to assess performance and instruction, obtaining student input when creating rubrics, and the benefits of rubrics. Provides sample rubrics. (CMK)

Discusses the collaboration between an art and a music teacher whose seventh grade students wrote an opera based on the children's story "The Egyptian Cinderella." Addresses familiarizing students with composing music, student roles, and writing the compositions. Provides helpful hints and considers the benefits of this project. (CMK)

Describes a project which, with the help of parents, students, faculty, and the school board, raised $55,000 to renovate the poor stage facilities of a high school auditorium. (RM)

Maintains that creativity is enhanced when students are given responsibility for their own learning. Identifies factors necessary for the fostering of creativity: computers, sound as the language of instruction, and a supportive classroom environment. Focuses on the necessity of maintaining a supportive environment, and suggests ways to create a…

Discusses site-based management as a means of school reform. Emphasizes the advantages of such decentralization for music education. Compares the traditional approach with a reform alternative in terms of decisions affecting teaching, learning, school climate, and curriculum. Urges implementation of site-based management as a means of involving…