Asserts that study of the arts fosters the type of divergent and creative thinking needed in both the business world and society. Argues that educators should work together to develop schedules of eight instructional periods allowing for more arts instruction. Considers requiring arts courses for graduation from high school. (MJP)

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)

Describes the role of arts education and, specifically, music education in Japanese schools. Outlines the music curriculum and teaching methods in elementary and secondary schools. Describes the role of western music and compares music education in Japan and the United States. (CFR)

Explains how the ear and the brain work together to make music listening possible. Argues good hearing does not ensure skilled listening, stressing that listening is a mental process. Examines the aural process and properties of sound, and describes listening behaviors within the basic levels of auditory processing. Provides a guide for teaching…

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)

Presents an interview with Keith Lockhart, the conductor and music director of the Boston Pops orchestra. Lockhart reflects on the role of music in education and society and describes ways he tries to communicate with young audiences. Includes a brief biography of the conductor. (MJP)

Asks the questions (1) what is critical thinking in music?; (2) why is it so important that we engage students in it?; and (3) what does it have to do with music education? Answers these questions and elaborates on the notion of critical thinking as an educational goal and tool. (MJP)

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)

Explains what music teachers can do in the classroom to promote and develop elementary school students' attention to music learning, listening, and comprehension. States the manner of presentation is critically important. Includes guidelines for classroom teaching and describes various class activities. (NL)

Maintains that senior citizens and children are at opposite ends of the time line, but have common needs. Contends that intergenerational music programs provide benefits to both. Describes a successful intergenerational program involving elementary-age choral groups and senior citizen groups. (CFR)

Contends that music education for adult learners is an important educational trend. Discusses the special needs and concerns of adult learners. Recommends approaches to setting up adult music learning centers. (CFR)

Outlines approaches for introducing multicultural music into the standard music appreciation class. Notes the close relationship and influence shared by Middle Eastern and Western music and recommends using this as a starting point. Includes selected resources on world music and recommended music selections. (MJP)

Provides a thorough overview of middle school guitar instruction discussing both private and group lessons. Considers the role of the guitar as both a solo instrument and in ensemble and orchestra. Includes curricular guidelines for a beginning guitar course and a sample list of songs for a final recital. (MJP)

Describes and defines the steps involved in measurement and evaluation: (1) determining an outcome; (2)defining scoring criteria; (3)establishing appropriate assessment tasks; and (4)creating opportunities for learning. Includes a flow chart for a design-down curriculum and an example of a vocal performance rating scale assessment. (MJP)

Maintains that music educators have struggled for decades with issues related to a "multimusical culture." Contends that balancing the musical traditions of Western civilization and honoring the varieties of music of cultural subgroups is a major issue in contemporary music education. (CFR)