Contends that Comprehensive Musicianship of the Contemporary Music Project has been all but ignored by music educators. Argues that Comprehensive Musicianship is the answer to a lack of measurable goals and assessment criteria in instrumental music. Concludes that secondary music instructors who fail to incorporate these techniques risk losing…

Asserts that U.S. education has entered a new era of advocacy for arts education. Describes publications and other efforts of the National Coalition for Music Education. Compares effective and ineffective advocacy methods and includes a table of contents of an "Action Kit for Music Education." (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)

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)

A vital aspect of music education often left unattended in preservice education is testing and evaluation. Discussed are ways to measure musical achievement and aptitude and factors to consider when selecting a test for student evaluation. Recommended achievement and aptitude tests are described. (RM)

Reports on the five guest speeches given at the second North Central Division Leadership Conference. The speeches emphasized the importance of assessing community needs; collaboration between higher education and K-12 to advance music education; and planning based on future enrollments and on awareness of educational trends. (CS)

The author first encountered Papago Indian culture when she became band director at a reservation school. She describes her attempts to bridge the culture gap, to communicate with and motivate her music students, and to adapt the music curriculum to their culture and educational needs. (SJL)

The major purpose of this discussion is to project future consequences of public education resulting from the current wave of taxpayer revolts. More specifically, a scenario for the 1980s is described that includes eight specific trends that will gain impetus from the Proposition 13 syndrome. (Author)

Provides a introduction and overview to alternative music notation systems. Describes guitar tablature, accordion tablature, klavarskribo (a keyboard notational system developed by Cornelius Pot, a Dutch engineer), and the digital piano roll. Briefly discusses the history of notation reform and current efforts. Includes examples from scores. (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)

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…

Reports concerns about the state of music in an urban society, reviewing educational, social, and cultural changes that should impel teachers to re-examine their programs. Offers several possible solutions to the problems that urbanization has imposed on school music programs. (LS)

Examines the state of school instrumental music, presenting an optimistic projection for the future. Claims that understanding developments in technology while honoring the past is the key to future success. Encourages the use of computers, portable keyboards, rock music, and television in the classroom to capture students' interest in technology.…

Focuses on the growth of jazz-related ensembles and jazz education. Covers trends that parallel technological developments including electronic keyboards, Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) systems, the computer, computer assisted instruction, interactive video, and the compact disc. Urges teachers to update their knowledge and experience…

Discusses the cultural pluralism prevalent in the United States and explores reasons why music educators must tailor their programs to reflect ethnic backgrounds of their students. States that musical diversity is vital to well-rounded music program. Recommends eight instructional strategies to increase multicultural awareness of students. (LS)