Several studies have been done on the effect of school music instruction on the self-concept of students, as well as on student perceptions of school music experiences, but few researchers have undertaken an in-depth inquiry of individual students to attempt to understand their possibly unique perceptions of school music. This case study used…

This article discusses the results of a survey conducted by the author asking music teachers why they leave their jobs. The author compiled an e-mail survey and sent it to instrumental music teachers who were making plans to leave their jobs for new positions or to leave the music education profession entirely. In order to widen the pool of…

This article outlines how fandom for popular music can he used to enhance students' music experiences in and out of the classroom. Examples are given from the author's own teaching in elementary school and from an ongoing study he has been conducting with preservice teachers undertaking teaching practicum experiences in schools where there is a…

Highlights the results of a survey that examined what influenced young people to select music education as a career. Provides suggestions for recruiting future music teachers during high school, such as providing opportunities to teach or encourage greater participation of underrepresented students. (CMK)

Discusses the meaning of creativity, focusing on music education. Emphasizes the four "p's" while examining the meaning of creativity: (1) the creative person; (2) the creative process; (3) the creative product; and (4) the creative place. Addresses how creative thinking can be at the center of teaching. (CMK)

Band directors and state music supervisors were asked if student musicians are exploited at athletic events. This article includes the supervisors' survey tabulations, Minnesota and North Dakota state position papers on band performances, and the responses of three high school and college band directors. (SJL)

Study showed that the student teaching experience doesn't affect the classroom management beliefs and skills of music education majors. These research results challenge conventional expectations regarding student teaching and can be viewed as supportive of teachers of methods' efforts to help future teachers acquire realistic beliefs and skills…

College admissions officers hesitate to accept arts courses as serious academic preparation. In 1981 the Springfield School sent letters to 70 colleges discussing the content of their arts classes. The responses of the colleges were highly positive about accepting arts credits, once the content of the courses was understood. (CS)

Marching band competition has become a major factor in instrumental music education. Studies reveal that directors, administrators, parents and students see the benefits of marching contests as mainly extra-musical. High school students and college freshmen had the most positive attitudes toward marching competition. The impact of competition on…

Survey results concerning each state's procedures for music teacher certification are examined; future directions for certification are discussed. Testing and evaluation of teaching will become an integral part of future certification practices. Additional methods for improving educational quality, e.g., field experiences before student teaching…

Twenty state music supervisors responded to a questionnaire soliciting their views on trends in music education through the 1980s. Responses included: cutbacks in elementary general music, trends toward "arts in education" programs, and continuing financial straits. Implications for music teacher education are drawn. (SJL)

Discusses music teacher supply and demand and suggests ideas to help music education graduates get jobs. A survey conducted by the Association of School, College and University Staffing shows regional demands for vocal and instrumental teachers. Job seekers should be willing to relocate, flexible in their expectations, and qualified in several…

Describes the results of a survey which asked music therapists what goals they most frequently established for children in their programs. The goals were: to improve gross and fine-motor skills, to encourage cooperation with peers and adults, to increase ability to follow directions, and to encourage active participation. (AM)

Asserts that the karaoke machine is an electronic device that can help music teachers. Describes the experimental use of karaoke units in four Dade County (Florida) schools to determine whether students would respond differently to this instructional method. Finds that students enjoyed using the karaoke and learned musical concepts faster and…

Reports on a survey of attitudes and teaching methods of 20 selected music teachers from large urban areas in the United States. Discusses the teachers' opinions and suggestions on preservice teacher education, classroom techniques, and improvement of urban music education. Includes survey questions and teacher responses. (CFR)