Asserts that educators will enjoy teaching more and students will enjoy learning if teachers are more selective in their words and expressions. Discusses positive verbal expressions and classroom techniques designed to enhance student self-concept. Presents suggestions for dealing with disruptions and problem students. (CFR)

Observes that master music teachers' intensity and commitment make them good candidates for burnout. Reports on contributing factors mentioned by music teachers: lack of recognition and support, unclear goals, poor curricular coordination, and poor working conditions. Offers suggestions for combating burnout including exercise, networking with…

Identifies areas of knowledge that differ between successful and at-risk students: sense of self-as-learner, level of understanding of problems in subjects, and ability to interact in relationships. Suggests a hands-on project to develop problem-solving abilities and self-confidence. Discusses objectives for a restructured curriculum. (DK)

Urges music educators and music therapists to cooperate in providing motivation for at-risk students through specially planned activities. Identifies means of meeting the risks of (1) lack of self-discipline and motivation; (2) not learning effectively; (3) alcohol and drug abuse; and (4) focus on rudimentary survival skills. (DK)

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…

Explores why K-12 music educators have been slow to incorporate research results into teaching practices. Reviews types and roles of music research, their value, application and relevance to teaching. Suggests teachers will become more effective by integrating research into music programs. (NL)

Asserts that music teachers often have less than ideal teaching situations that may result in lowered teacher morale. Contends that music teachers must choose to improve morale by becoming more involved in school activities. Provides suggestions for improving one's individual morale and the perceptions of teaching colleagues toward music teachers.…

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)

Describes a music major program that was created at a high school to help students prepare for a future career in music, provide documentation of their four years of study in music for the college application process, and continue to study music after high school. (CMK)

Describes the history of women in music in the United States. Vocal performance was the first area that opened up for women. Prejudice against women instrumentalists still exists, though breakthroughs into the major orchestras occurred after World War II. Women are also underrepresented as teachers of composition and conducting. (CS)

Extols the virtues of a year-round school schedule and identifies several schools where this practice has contributed to the success of the music program. Briefly discusses such key factors as staffing, budget, curriculum, logical sequence of instruction, and performance scheduling. Includes an example of a year-round schedule. (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)

Presents ideas based upon the responses from veteran teachers (n=25) interviewed on five topics: (1) changes in the field: (2) whether their teaching changed; (3) changes in philosophy and/or priorities; (4) concerns or predictions for the future; and (5) an event or development that affected them. (CMK)

Asserts that, although music teachers direct a great deal of time toward improving student recruitment, improving student retention in music courses and activities is just as important. Maintains that student interest in music rises dramatically in the first few weeks of instruction and then declines in a second stage. (CFR)

Asserts that there is an educational trend to include multicultural music in the curriculum. Questions how music teachers can integrate multicultural material. Provides suggestions including the use of culture studies, celebrations and holidays, song themes, and instrument types as springboards for teaching cultural pluralism. (CFR)