To what degree can computers be programed to create original, aesthetic musical compositions? Three examples of computer-generated melody illustrate that computers are by no means close to producing advanced musical works which call for aesthetic and intuitive decision making. (Author/KC)

Ian Tamblyn's workshop on song writing emphasized that song writing takes time and work and that one should enjoy the process, whether or not anyone else will ever hear the song. Guidelines cover choosing a song topic, developing a story within the song, conveying a distinct perspective, and using song writing in outdoor and experiential…

Although they abandon traditional techniques and materials, today's radical composers may still be considered the logical continuation of Western classical tradition, for they retain the one thing most characteristic of Western music: self-conscious, intellectual, individualized craftsmanship. (Part of a theme issue on aspects of contemporary…

Twenty-two second grade children created musical compositions on an Orff xylophone during an eight-week period and produced accompanying written scores. Analysis showed that, over the period, children improved pattern recognition and increased use of melodic motives, and that writing the score did not inhibit the creative process. (JDD)

Examines approaches and structures that students and teachers may use to explore connections between poetry and jazz. Suggests specific techniques for intermingling the two. Looks at the relationship between the two in terms of "mood,""program," and "allusion." Provides examples of paired pieces and marked-up poetry texts. (TB)

Presents an interview with Dave Brubeck, a composer and performer in contemporary jazz. Covers topics such as how Brubeck introduced his sons to music, whether he differentiates between "popular" and "serious" music, suggestions for helping music teachers develop relationships with composers, and the role music education should have in schools.…

Draws on six instances in which students were engaged in improvisational musical composition with peers and/or a teacher in music classroom settings. Offers an analysis of the creative process and product. Discusses the findings and the role of shared understanding in empowering independent musical thinking. (CMK)

Recommends all music programs taking an active role in developing programs that promote and teach improvisation. Discusses some simple instructional strategies and models to follow when creating an improvisational program. Includes score selections and a list of selected resources. (MJP)

Includes "Texts and Margins" (Greene); "Arts as Epistemology: Enabling Children to Know What They Know" (Gallas); "To Arrive in Another World: Poetry, Language Development, and Culture" (Steinbergh); "The Uses of Folk Music and Songwriting in the Classroom" (Cockburn); and "And Practice Drives Me Mad;…

Describes a musical created by third-grade students and their teachers in Colorado explaining Native American legends. Describes how teachers wrote songs for the program, students narrated and acted in the musical and painted scenery, costumes were brought from home and made at school. Discusses curricular areas addressed in the musical, including…