Suzuki believed that all human beings are endowed with remarkable musical ability and can learn to play musical instruments in the same way they learn to speak. The Suzuki method of teaching music and its evolution in the United States are discussed. (RM)

Care of musical instruments should be a part of every student's music education. What students should know about caring for pianos is discussed. The main parts of the piano--the cabinet, the mechanical part, the musical part, and the structure--are discussed. Tuning and pitch raise are also discussed. (RM)

Presents an interview with the flutist, James Galway, in which he discusses issues such as the musical culture of Ireland, his technical mastery as a musician, and the importance of music education in the lives of young people. (CMK)

Paul Lehrman mentioned in Mix Magazine that school music programs, which traditionally have given students the precious opportunity to hear what real instruments sound like from both player's and listener's perspective, are in the toilet. Some within the profession have voiced similar concerns. K-12 music teachers have historically have had very…

Provides an overview of the evolution and instructional use of pianos, from their first development and use in homes to their nearly universal presence in the music classroom. Notes the strengths and weaknesses of the piano as an instrument for music instruction and concludes with recommendations for improved use. (JDH)

Seven string educators respond to questions about repertoire sources for novice players, the teaching of improvisation, weaknesses in current instructional materials, ensemble size, the integration of Suzuki's methods into traditional programs, the problems of a violinist teaching other instruments, and coordination of school and other youth…

Folk music is not necessarily old, anonymous, or unwritten. Its most important characteristic is change through the folk process. Folk music is a part of our national heritage that children can usually acquire only in school. It can be used to support a variety of school subjects. (CS)

Presents a rationale for using handbells and discusses their application to elementary, junior high, high school, special education, and college music programs. (SJL)

Focuses on ways to develop student creative thinking, improvisation, and composition skills in instrumental classes. Provides suggestions, such as the importance of offering students creative opportunities, supplying examples, giving control to students, and encouraging expressive integrity. Includes a bibliography of resources for developing…

MENC has recently, recapitulated its vision of "Music for All" in its strategic plan, which warns that "30 to 50 per cent of new teachers who work in urban areas leave the field in their first three years of service.'' This undoubtedly affects instrumental music instruction for urban children. Collegial sharing is one solution to problems…