Presents viewpoints on the educational value of music competition for young children. Includes arguments for and against contests. Considerations include purpose of the competition, and experience and preparation of the students, as well as structure and environment of the competition. (LS)

Presents an annotated listing of choral works by women composers. Suggests sources of information about women composers and their music. Discusses some contemporary women whose compositions are particularly appropriate for student voices. Concludes that the listed works will help place women composers in perspective for student choral groups. (SG)

The past year has been unusual for the number of music notables who have passed away--among them Bing Crosby, Maria Callas, Elvis Presley, Leopold Stowkowski, Ethel Waters, and Alexander Tcherepnin. These six reflect a variety of music in the 20th century. Here is an analyses of their music contributions with selected bibliographies and…

Discusses a variety of ways in which the small ensemble may be developed into a highly successful organization within the school. Highlights the importance of student input into performances and advocates the planning of concerts in conjunction with professional performers. Describes several of the author's experiences with small ensembles. (GEA)

Discusses the life of William Billings, an early American composer and a leader in one of the earliest forms of organized music education in the United States: singing schools and singing societies. Examines his contributions to the U.S. musical heritage and briefly surveys his publications. (GEA)

Examines the use of avant-garde works to expand the musical horizons of elementary, junior high, and high school choirs. Lists the criteria which determine avant-garde music, suggests sources of appropriate works, and presents examples of available music in this field. (GEA)

Provides an overview of the evolution and instructional use of pianos, from their first development and use in homes to their nearly universal presence in the music classroom. Notes the strengths and weaknesses of the piano as an instrument for music instruction and concludes with recommendations for improved use. (JDH)

Tips to help new music teachers are presented. They include: learn the lay of the land; establish good relations with your superiors; use teaching methods with which you are familiar; get acquainted with the community; and beware of local politics. (RM)

Tips to help musicians relax and be more confident as they perform are presented. For example, when complete attention is focused on the music, the mind does not worry about the audience. (RM)

The elements of jazz improvisation are discussed and criteria for their evaluation are suggested. The criteria can be used as guidelines for the objective and thorough analysis of individual student performance. (RM)

The history of country music, from Appalachian folk music to today's bluegrass festivals, is discussed. (RM)

Born in Russia in 1894, Nicholas Slonimsky founded the Chamber Orchestra of Boston and was the editor of the latest three editions of Baker's "Biographical Dictionary of Music." In this interview he talks about his life in music and his love of teaching music. (RM)

Ellen Zwilich was the first young woman to earn a doctorate in composition from the Juilliard School, and in 1983, she was the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for music. In this interview, she discusses many topics, including her music and what she looks for in an audience. (RM)

Folk music is not necessarily old, anonymous, or unwritten. Its most important characteristic is change through the folk process. Folk music is a part of our national heritage that children can usually acquire only in school. It can be used to support a variety of school subjects. (CS)

A handbook focused towards students and parents can be one of a music director's most useful tools. The handbook should include sections on: philosophy and objectives; courses; guidelines for behavior; evaluation; and practice habits. Field trips, festivals, contents, awards, and scholarships should also be discussed. (CS)