This chapter talks about various systems different countries use to teach music in public schools, and explains the national standards for music education in the U.S. This compares various teaching methods, and gives possible ideas for use in my music classroom.
I think it is very interesting to learn about how different and similar teaching practices are around the world. A few themes are common in music education, like the fact that most programs for music in schools came from religious practices, and that most music programs are choral and elementary music classes. Music composition is also more prominent around the world than in the US. Also, music programs seem to be less structured, and students are more free to study music in their own way. They also implement them music of their respective cultures in the classroom, which keeps their traditions alive. I’ve also noticed that some countries train their students in music from a very young age and require them to play an instrument while they’re in school. They tend to have very high expectations and produce a lot of very accomplished musicians.
The chapter goes on to talk about various teaching strategies for students, beginning in elementary school and going through school into adulthood. It then talks about synthesizing different music classes for the appropriate class, and different music styles. I liked the chart provided in the book and think it will be a useful tool for me. This chapter gave me a lot of good information, both on teaching ideas and how to be culturally aware of my students and their cultures.