As a music reference librarian at the Library of Congress, Cait Miller gets obscure songs questions that pose greater issues for music librarians because music libraries are generally searchable by format, genre, instrumentation, composer, and/or title but not often by lyrical quotation. New crowdsourcing transcription programs, however, give hope…

The idea of audience etiquette brings with it specific expectations influenced by both the social context and the performance genre. While audience response has traditionally been viewed as passive, performers are finding new and innovative ways of actively engaging young audiences, seeking immediate response, inviting exploration, and encouraging…

The discoveries of score analysis (e.g., minor seventh chord, ostinato, phrase elision, melodic fragment, half cadence) are more than just compositional techniques or music vocabulary. They are sounds--fascinating, storytelling, dynamic modes of expression--that when approached as such enrich the rehearsal experience. This article presents a…

This article looks at the iPad's role as a musical instrument through the lens of a live performance ensemble that performs primarily on iPads. It also offers an overview of a pedagogical model used by this ensemble, which emphasizes musician autonomy in small groups, where music is learned primarily through aural means and concerts are…

After sharing research findings about grading and assessment practices in secondary music ensemble classes, we offer examples of commonly used assessment tools (ratings scale, checklist, rubric) for the performance ensemble. Then, we explore the various purposes of assessment in performance-based music courses: (1) to meet state, national, and…

While music is as old as humanity, conducting as a profession is relatively new. Although a nineteenth-century model has served as the template for the training of conductors, many undergraduate conducting students will spend their teaching careers working with inexperienced and/or amateur musicians. Additionally, the size of many ensembles in…

Article reviews Rudolf Bing's accomplishments as general manager of New York's Metropolitan Opera and outlines changes planned by his successor, Goeran Gentele. These include staging contemporary operas in a smaller theater, appointment of a musical director, hiring top orchestra conductors, new sets and tapping new sources of funds. (PD)

Opinions concerning the advent of federal support of the performing arts are discussed. (CK)

Musical theater should be an important part of a school's music program. The author describes the success of such a project and the enjoyment experienced by all concerned. (MF)

Discussed the efforts of a university to undertake the production of a theatre piece created by Leonard Bernstein. (RK)

Author decries music education aimed only at producing professional performers, noting the pleasure many adults have in playing an instrument or singing simply as an avocation. He suggests revising music education to enable the non-professional to continue in music as hobby more easily. (PD)