This report captures the variety of music education research between 2012-2014 and covers a range of topics and events such as the International Society for Music Education (ISME) 2012, Australian Society for Music Education (ASME) 2013 and Australian and New Zealand Association for Research in Music Education (ANZARME) 2014.

The purpose of this study was to investigate any relationship between observed and reported use of a cappella singing in the elementary general music classroom. A secondary purpose of this study was to examine teachers' practical perspectives influencing the use of a cappella singing in the elementary general music classroom. From a total of 50…

The current paper retrospectively evaluates the efficacy of implementing a large-scale music education program into a regional cluster of Victorian primary schools. The program's primary aim was to increase access and quality of music education for students in these rural schools. The methods utilized to evaluate the program and the discrepancies…

Suggestions are made for using the brainstorming approach in improvisational music with students. Examples of approaches used with primary students as well as with beginning instrumentalists are cited. (CL)

A musical christmas play designed for assembly presentation or as a traveling production played from classroom to classroom. (Author)

Instructions are presented for making and using several musical instruments for primary- and intermediate-grade students. (CB)

This article describes science activities which introduce students to the mechanics of sound while encouraging class musicians to share their expertise. A reproducible activity sheet is included. (IAH)

The landscape of music education in the UK is constantly shifting and developing. This book provides a timely and unique overview of this restless sector by considering the achievements of music education, analysing its current performance and setting out aspirations for the future. "Music Education in the 21st Century in the United…

Describes how to use ensembles of recorders and other folk instruments in elementary school music classes. The importance of improvisation and aural training in mixed ensembles is stressed. (AM)

GRADES OR AGES: K-6. SUBJECT MATTER: General and instrumental music. ORGANIZATION AND PHYSICAL APPEARANCE: The guide is divided into 16 short chapters and several appendixes. Each of these is straight text interspersed with illustrations. The guide is offset printed and staple bound with a paper cover. OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES: A philosophy of…

Explores the effect of aptitude, two methods of introducing wind and string instruments, and the effect of socioeconomic status on children's attitude toward playing an instrument. Finds no relationship between musical aptitude and musical attitude, but that the method of introduction and socioeconomic status combined to affect children's…

Article describes an introductory music program in which all students are given the opportunity to learn about a variety of musical instruments by actually playing them. (RW)

Orff mallet instruments should be used in beginning band classes. Adding mallet instruments would expand a beginner's concept of percussion instruments. Just as important, the percussion section would provide a solid melodic and harmonic foundation to assist beginning wind instrumentalists with their insecurities about pitch. (RM)