Maintains that instilling in a choral ensemble the desire to sing well is a primary goal of a choral director. Provides suggestions for changing established student attitudes and overcoming mediocrity. Makes suggestions for effective choral presentations. (CFR)

Argues the integrity and authenticity of popular music should be maintained in school choral programs. Explores the nature of this challenge. Suggests examples of popular artists whose music and styles fit into school choral programs. Identifies popular music terms teachers should understand and considers aspects of teacher training. Selects…

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)

Asserts that music teachers should use the Dalcroze Method of instruction, which postulates that music students must acquire six skills as a foundation for their music education. Contends that these skills are observable behaviors and can all be taught through physical movement. Suggests teaching methods for effective implementation. (CFR)

Contends that music educators must develop a stronger rationale for music education in the face of economic pressures and questions about the value of aesthetic education. Argues that music educators must stress both the utilitarian and aesthetic objectives of music. Includes six basic rationale statements for music education. (CFR)

Argues that history must be included in the study of music to understand the context of the composer's era. Maintains that historical performance information, music technology, the place of music in society, music literature, and performing practices also should be included. Provides four charts of recommended resources. (CFR)

Describes efforts by four music teachers to combine music education students and music teachers as partners. Discusses motivation of music students and mainstreaming special education students in music education. Suggests specific methods for encouraging cooperation between music educators at the college level and music teachers. (CFR)

Advocates a proactive method by Forrest Gathercoal of dealing with conflict and discipline in the music classroom through reliance on democratic principles. This method, "Judicious Discipline," is based upon the Bill of Rights and includes sharing power, allowing students to be heard, and acknowledging their thoughts as credible and…

Describes a series of breathing exercises designed to produce a more focused and cohesive choral group. Maintains that these exercises will improve singing, develop body awareness, and result in a more vital and responsive class. Exercises are illustrated by accompanying photographs. (MJP)

Profiles a summer music and arts program specifically designed for children and adults with Williams Syndrome. Williams Syndrome is a chromosomal aberration, usually resulting in mild or moderate retardation often accompanied by an acute sensitivity to sound and perfect pitch. The summer program focused on music and performing arts. (MJP)

Elucidates the concepts of evaluation, and maintains that evaluation is an integral part of music education, at all levels. Expounds on the functions of evaluation in music education, dividing the discussion into the following categories: achievement, diagnostic, aptitude, and attitude functions. Addresses the concerns and criticisms of…

Maintains that the Music Educators National Conference (MENC) achieved an important symbolic victory by being a primary developer of the National Standards for Arts Education. Presents and discusses five issues related to the Goals 2000 program in general and the standards related to music education in particular. (CFR)

Asserts that integrating music with core curriculum subjects can improve student achievement in production, perception, and reflection in general music classes. Describes the Arts PROPEL approach, based on the philosophy that students learn best when they are active constructors of their own knowledge. (CFR)

Asserts that cooperating teachers are the most important factor in the preservice music teaching experience. Discusses the role of cooperating teacher-student teacher communications and presents a four-step cycle of supervision conferencing. (CFR)

Maintains that the Internet offers services and opportunities for music teachers and students. Provides an overview of topics such as electronic mail, File Transfer Protocol (FTP), Gopher, and the World Wide Web (WWW). Includes two lists of music resources available on the Internet. (CFR)