Article described a program with the goal of developing a creative music curriculum that would interest and challenge sixth-graders. Students were motivated to write the lyrics and music for their own songs. (Author/RK)

Compares 174 music theory and composition professors' opinions about eminence among contemporary U.S. composers to frequency of works performed by 29 U.S. symphony orchestras. Finds faculty-perceived eminence and programing practices moderately related. Suggests some consensus among faculty and orchestra surveys regarding composer eminence. (CH)

Presents an interview with Alan Menken that addresses his role as a composer, different influences and paths in his career, and the importance of music education in his life. Asserts that music should permeate all aspects of education because it is a vital aspect of a student's emotional and intellectual life. (CMK)

Explains that there are five components for achieving the ideal band tone (balance, blend, acoustics, sonority, and chord voicing). Presents information on each component. Provides seven suggestions helpful in developing band tone, such as explain and establish goals for the band's tone, practice for tone, and choose music to optimize tone. (CMK)

Offers an interview with Sir David Wilcocks, an organist, conductor, and music educator, in which he discusses different organs, what influenced him to become a musician, his experience of teaching a boy's choir, the characteristics of a great ensemble, musical compositions, his "Glories of Shakespeare" collection, and the importance of…

There are two issues that struck the author, Jason Helfer, as essential from his consideration of Miralis' paper and the ideas of Manos Hadjidakis: Eros as a pedagogical idea and learner interactions in the music classroom. These ideas developed from his interpretation of Miralis' paper, from his experiences in teacher training, and teaching in…

This author, a composer, states that music has been the primal generator of his existence and the definition of living creatively; and that understanding the bicameral reality of creativity through a study of the nature of consciousness involves a symbiotic host of disciplines. In the study of the occurrence of "creativity," consciousness as well…

A survey was conducted to determine the ways in which various factors help in the achievement of status for the three types of music faculty (performance, theory and history, and music education). A questionnaire was sent to 207 full-time music faculty members in six state-supported university schools/departments of music. A response rate of 54.6%…

Discusses how music teachers can begin a gospel choir at the middle school through university levels. Provides a historical background on gospel choirs and presents the benefits of having a gospel choir. Focuses on issues teachers should address, how to teach this type of choir, and common misconceptions. (CMK)

Article presents the case for student musical composition in high school and suggests ways to initiate the creative process. (RK)

Discusses the abilities a conductor must invoke in order to develop a successful choral ensemble. Recommends recruitment strategies, lists characteristics of successful teaching styles, offers suggestions for programing and literature selection, for score analysis, and for rehearsal structure and techniques. (LS)

Frank Leto, a professional musician and a Montessori teacher, discusses his professional music career, family, the arts in Montessori education, the lifestyle of a professional musician, writing children's songs, and percussion instruments. Provides advice for teachers of music. (SD)

Considers why students should participate in a chamber music ensemble: (1) students develop a sense of collegiality and self-worth; (2) ensembles encourage practice time; and (3) ensembles provide flexible performance opportunities. Highlights the different aspects of creating an ensemble from the availability of faculty to selecting challenging…

Born in 1910, composer William Schuman has been deeply involved with music education, first as a college professor and later a president of the Julliard School of Music. In this interview, Schuman talks about what music means to him, his teaching career, and music in general education. (RM)

Recommends all music programs taking an active role in developing programs that promote and teach improvisation. Discusses some simple instructional strategies and models to follow when creating an improvisational program. Includes score selections and a list of selected resources. (MJP)