The author suggests that instruction in musical improvisation can serve any student interested in music. Improvisation is defined, teaching suggestions are presented, and selected resources for teaching with improvisation are included. The emphasis is on jazz, though most information is applicable to other kinds of improvisation. (KC)

Although they abandon traditional techniques and materials, today's radical composers may still be considered the logical continuation of Western classical tradition, for they retain the one thing most characteristic of Western music: self-conscious, intellectual, individualized craftsmanship. (Part of a theme issue on aspects of contemporary…

Offers suggestions for students and teachers for learning jazz improvisation. Discusses listening, practicing scales, chords, phrasing, developing a sense of swing, and shaping creative ideas through structural features. Emphasizes the relationship between chords and scales as a critical key to improvisation. Recommends educational materials to…

Article examines the music and musical instruments of an area commonly referred to as the South Sea Isles. Author also points out the musical function and cultural meaning of specific musical styles. (RK)

Maintains that commissioning musical works is almost as old as music itself and that it is a privilege to premiere a work that has been composed specifically for you and your chorus. Describes the approaches that classroom music teachers used to commission musical works. Includes seven guidelines. (CFR)

Focuses on the connections among the concepts of virtuosity, performance, and knowledge. Defines a virtuoso performance and the two different types of virtuoso performers. Considers to whom the label "virtuoso" should or should not apply and limits its literal application to performers who participate in the interpretive realization of art works.…

This article reports on an exploratory investigation of the relationship between prior experience of formal instrumental music tuition (FIMT) and the process of collaborative computer-based music composition. The study linked a school in the UK with a school in Norway to engage in computer-mediated collaborative composition via e-mail.…

The contents of this book, which explains the techniques of sound engineering, sound design, and composition for the theatre, are compiled for the theatre student who knows very little about sound. Topics of chapters are acoustics, systems, equipment, sound for a theatrical production, recording and editing techniques, composing and creating sound…

This beautifully photographed book accompanies the Wynton Marsalis Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) series on the introduction to the joy of music, both classical and jazz, for families, young people, and music-hungry readers of all ages. Divided into four chapters, the book corresponds to the four one-hour programs in the PBS series. Wynton…

The essential components of an ideal facility for computer-assisted musical composition and research are briefly described. More detailed consideration is given to the central role of a graphical display unit in such a system. (Author)

Article discusses the benefits of traditional musical education, common practice', and relates the need for updating theory instruction with current practice. (RK)

Describes an opera based on Peter Pan which was composed, produced, and performed entirely by children in grades one through six. (MB)

The author highlights some of the progressive trends in jazz band arrangements--woodwind doubling, synthesizers, strings, multipercussion, and other nontraditional instruments--and suggests sources for such scores to school jazz band directors. This article is part of a theme issue on popular music. (Author/SJL)

Activities are suggested to teach the basic concepts of twelve tone serial technique. Students need no prior background in contemporary music. At least two sets of resonator bars are necessary. (This article is part of a theme issue on aspects of contemporary music.) (Author/SJL)