Progressive music education methods such as informal music learning, modern band and technology based composition are revitalizing music education in wonderful ways. In these methods, students are directing their own learning, composing their own work and performing with cultural relevance. Much of the music in these curriculums (not all) is popular music. While it is positive that these curriculums are offering students a strong music education that is relevant to them culturally, they may never be afforded the opportunity to learn about the full range of music that the world has to offer. If a student does not participate in band, chorus or orchestra; will they ever have a chance to learn about the rich and compelling history of western music? For many years, the alternative to band, chorus and orchestra was music appreciation. The curriculum was often boring and it usually did not afford students many opportunities to participate in meaningful music making or composition. What if we could take what we have learned from informal music learning methods and the power of the iPad to make a music history course that is genuinely creative and student centered? What if students were able to play and compose music along with the great composers of western music? I believe the iPad has afforded us this opportunity.
Classical music is often inaccessible to non-traditional music students because it requires the student to develop a great deal of skill before performance is possible. Furthermore, classical music is far removed from a student’s prevailing musical culture making it difficult to relate to, let alone actually interact with. This presentation advocates for a restructuring of the music appreciation curriculum and an infusion of composition and informal music making strategies. Several iPad activities will be demonstrated live or pre-recorded. Resource packets will be provided that detail iPad activities for this curriculum. Technology has left us with no excuse. Every part of the music education curriculum should afford students the opportunity to interact, create and literally play with music.
Seth Pendergast 