Discusses how listening, in conjunction with questioning and classroom dialogues, promotes critical thinking about music. Suggests that classroom interaction encourages analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of content. Lists ways music teachers can stimulate critical thinking, including an activity called structural dictation, and the development of…

Provides an overview of music learning in the People's Republic of China, focusing on three basic types of schools: public schools, target schools, and fine arts schools. Also looks at teacher training and at the long-range sociological implications for music education in China. (LS)

Raises concerns about the music educator's approach to teaching pre-kindergarten children. Proposes a pre-kindergarten music curriculum model based on a synthesis of theories about the learning environment with the contributions of learning/play theorists and music educators. Provides a global to specific approach to interactive play periods. (LS)

Reviews current research findings in the field of music in early childhood. Focuses on the musical development of the average child, citing evidence of music cognition and of music production. Reports some model programs established by music educators to work with parents and preschools to encourage musical development in the young child. (LS)

Discusses effective ways to develop and promote educationally sound music programs for preschool children. Covers three types of music learning centers as versatile and inexpensive resources for creating independent learning environments: singing centers, instrument centers, and listening centers. Suggests ideas for group time, and for promoting…

Provides a selected list of contemporary performance literature suitable for middle school and junior high bands. Considers both quality and consistency, as well as the ability of a composition to remain interesting and challenging throughout rehearsal, as selection standards. Groups the 100 works according to difficulty level. (LS)

Supports the use of novels in music classes to activate student interest in an unfamiliar field. Shows how "Come Sing, Jimmy Jo" (K. Paterson), "Pennington's Seventeenth Summer" (K.M. Peyton), and "Jazz Country" (N. Hentoff) can enhance music learning because characters engage in aesthetic judgment, struggle with artistic problems, and discuss…

Urges the use of the small-group activities to encourage class participation, stimulate interest, and develop greater understanding of the subject. Describes specific applications of this approach in undergraduate and graduate music education courses. Discusses practical considerations and offers suggestions for encouraging interaction. Concludes…

Examines the influences that have shaped today's school music programs by reviewing the history of instrumental music in the United States. Points out the pervasiveness of the military influence on uniforms, music, and marching styles. Discusses European influences, band contests, businesses associated with bands, and the effects of recent budget…

Critiques musical learning in school bands, and points out the need to teach more than performance skills. Encourages band directors to use comprehensive musicianship teaching techniques, suggesting methods to help band students think musically. Provides workable, specific strategies for rehearsals. (LS)

Cites some current problems in string teaching and encourages teachers to be more aggressive in providing for future string programs. Suggests that starting novice string players in later grades, developing effective student and program evaluation, establishing competent planning and scheduling, and using positive program promotion will ensure an…

Reports concerns about the state of music in an urban society, reviewing educational, social, and cultural changes that should impel teachers to re-examine their programs. Offers several possible solutions to the problems that urbanization has imposed on school music programs. (LS)

Examines the state of school instrumental music, presenting an optimistic projection for the future. Claims that understanding developments in technology while honoring the past is the key to future success. Encourages the use of computers, portable keyboards, rock music, and television in the classroom to capture students' interest in technology.…

Focuses on the growth of jazz-related ensembles and jazz education. Covers trends that parallel technological developments including electronic keyboards, Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) systems, the computer, computer assisted instruction, interactive video, and the compact disc. Urges teachers to update their knowledge and experience…

Urges band directors to restructure school band programs as a basic part of the overall curriculum to gain a more secure position in the schools. Encourages directors to insist on manageable class sizes, to focus on individual student learning, to teach from organized and specific curricula, and to evaluate learning outcomes. (LS)