This article presents the results of a research by Whitworth University music professor Richard Strauch which assesses the freshman class for Whitworth's 2007-08 academic year. Strauch found that Whitworth students who stuck with their high school music program had higher GPAs and standardized test scores upon entering the university than…

This article reports the finding of a recent study conducted as part of a larger white paper, "Sounds of Learning: The Impact of Music Education on All Aspects of a Child's Growth and Development. The purpose of the study was to uncover what people know and what they do not know about the impact of music education on at-risk kids, in an effort to…

Beginning a community youth orchestra can be one of the most rewarding--and draining--experiences in music education. Forming a group requires administrative expertise, interpersonal skills, expert musicianship, and a lot of elbow grease. The author used all these attributes and skills when he founded the Spanish Fork (Utah) Chamber Players…

Provides guidelines for determining when and where to attend a summer music camp. Recommends (1) acquiring information year-round; (2) locating local and regional resources; (3) determining the family's level of interest; (4) determining the child's maturity level; (5) starting early and observing deadlines; and (6) expediting auditions and tapes.…

Outlines a variety of activities incorporating celebration and study of the Olympic Games into the music curriculum. Suggested activities are separated by elementary, middle school, and secondary levels. Includes a list of Olympic music recordings. (MJP)

Presents an interview with premier jazz pianist Billy Taylor. Taylor talks about the support and encouragement he received from his family and schools. He also discusses his work with young people and his support for education and the arts. (MJP)

Identifies key aspects of producing talent shows and outlines helpful hints for avoiding pitfalls and ensuring a smooth production. Presents suggestions concerning publicity, scheduling, and support personnel. Describes types of acts along with special needs and problems specific to each act. Includes a list of resources. (MJP)

Presents three lesson plans designed to work in conjunction with a live broadcast of the New York Philharmonic (may be available on videotape). The activities include identifying influences and components of works by Dvorak and Tchaikovsky. Includes a roster of the New York Philharmonic along with background material. (MJP)

Outlines a series of creative ideas designed to increase the membership and effectiveness of a campus music organization. Ideas are collected under the broad categories of recruitment, retention, programs, special events, and fundraising. Suggestions include partnerships with other organizations, mentoring programs, and others. (MJP)

Interviews the Canadian Brass, a quintet of classically trained musicians who combine a disciplined performance with comedic presentation. The musicians discuss their education, family influence, early careers, and the contribution they make to music education efforts in general. (MJP)

Briefly summarizes a number of salient points outlined in, "The United States Copyright Law: A Guide for Music Educators." The book delineates the principles of fair use and copyright protection and how they relate to school and other music programs. Most school use falls under fair use. (MJP)

Provides suggestions for encouraging elementary students to join and continue participation in school choral music groups. Recommends focusing on male students because they are the most difficult to recruit. Also suggests having a high school choral group come to the elementary school to help with recruitment. (CFR)

Presents an interview with Walter Turnbull, founder and conductor of Boys Choir of Harlem (New York). Turnbull discusses the origins of the choir and the positive affects it has had on its many participants. He also discusses the role of music in arts education and the importance of the arts in the curriculum. (MJP)

Outlines 15 suggestions for preplanning and implementing choir tours. Briefly discusses; booking and travel agencies, options for financing, establishing educational objectives, parental permission forms, chaperons, housing, and performance apparel. Recommends planning a tour at least a year in advance. (MJP)

Maintains that the collegiate chapters of the Music Educators National Conference act as an excellent training ground for student leaders. Recommends continuing the support and guidance for these students to emerge as leading teachers. Provides specific advice for MENC chapter advisors on fostering support and independence. (MJP)