Reviews the changing nature of the music publishing business. States that trends such as the decrease of music education in U.S. schools and the abuse of copyright by illegal photocopying in schools and churches have threatened the industry's existence. Includes information on recent corporate takeovers and changes among U.S. music publishers.…

A strategy to help students practice guitar and other types of instruments is described. The strategy includes various stages: warm-up, hyper-consciousness, concentration on details that give a piece its final luster, second run-through, and homework. (RM)

Suggestions to help music teachers adapt the following teaching methods are provided: the Dalcroze method for dance class; the Kodaly method for instrumentalists; the Orff method for string players; the Suzuki method for instrumentalists; and the Kodaly method for chorus. (RM)

The chairperson of the Music in Our Schools Week discusses the importance of music in the school program. Music provides an opportunity for every child to be a performer, a creator, and a listener. Music teachers must take the lead in educating the public to recognize this. (CS)

Reasons for attending a conference include renewing friendships, exhibiting performances, placing students, and continuing education. The conference is also a time to raise hard questions about music education such as the place of the nonperformer and what to do about the highly standardized repertoire. (CS)

Music directors assume that students know what advance preparations must be made for a trip and what items they may need. Many find out the hard way that this is not necessarily so. A checklist that directors can give to students to help them plan for a trip is presented. (RM)

One of the most discouraging things that can happen to the director of a performing group is to lose an outstanding musician from the program due to a conflict in the student's schedule. The floating eighth period schedule is a viable solution. (RM)

Describes the origin and history of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA) and of the National School Orchestra Association (NSOA). While memberships overlap, the two organizations have a distinctive identity. They have shared convention sessions, lectures, and editors. (CS)

Discusses how the use of appropriate scheduling techniques and team teaching can improve the quality of music education. The use of computers to reduce competition between music and other unique classes is suggested. With properly scheduled classes, a cooperative team of music teachers can enrich the entire music curriculum. (AM)

The positive features of nonperformance programs such as general music and music appreciation should be communicated often and effectively to the community. There are many effective publicity media appropriate for nonperformance programs. (AM)

The voting system in judging music competitions contains certain biases that affect the final results. Weaknesses of the system and possible reforms are discussed. (RM)

Outlines goals for the Music Educators National Conference (MENC) through the year 2000. MENC priorities include forming an advisory group composed of special-interest groups, improving state-level support of music, improving its public and government relations, increasing membership, better articulating the value of music, and adapting to changes…

Presents leg conditioning, respiratory fitness, and stride exercises for marching band members. (SJL)

Reviews the history of Black music education in the public schools of Washington, D.C., from 1869 through the 1920s. Appended (on pp38-39) are historical notes on Black composers James Weldon Johnson and John Rosamond Johnson, and their song "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing." (Author/SJL)

Defines creativity by exploring the four components of creativity: person, product, process, and persistence. Illustrates the characteristics of the creative person and examines blocks to creativity. Applies the creativity concepts to music education. (RW)