Assessment is one of the thorniest aspects of teaching for creativity. Nevertheless, research suggests there is tremendous potential for nurturing creativity through assessment. This article identifies how music educators can leverage assessment for learning (formative assessment) as a powerful tool for cultivating creativity within a variety of…

This article suggests pathways for supporting habits of creativity and the development of creative mindsets in performance-ensemble learning spaces. The Wallas model of creative thought is used to frame the concept of creative musical mindsets. The author reflects on the assumptions and principles outlined in the stages of this influential model…

A fundamental aim of the Race to the Top agenda is to assess the effectiveness of teachers based on value-added growth measurement models of student achievement. However, in nontested grades and subject areas, such as music, alternative assessment types are being considered, including district-, school-, or teacher-developed measures. This article…

Helping young musicians learn how to practice effectively is a challenge faced by all music educators. This article presents a system of individual music practice instruction that can be seamlessly integrated within large-ensemble rehearsals. Using a step-by-step approach, large-ensemble conductors can teach students to identify and isolate…

Between 2009 and 2014, thirty-seven states in the United States have adopted or significantly amended their teacher evaluation laws, mostly shifting toward using measurements of student growth on achievement tests. Yet, the processes to evaluate core subjects have not always transitioned smoothly to nontested or artistic content, causing some…

Music educators who value the teaching of music in cultural and social contexts face the issue of how best to teach a musical practice outside its home setting. Many curricular materials advocate careful attention to cultural context in order to present accurate musical practices, but teachers do not always have the time and resources, or perhaps…

A model of music preference theory suggests ways that teachers can broaden their students' musical preferences. Teachers can change preferences by changing something in the listener, the social environment, the music, or the ways that the listener processes information. (AM)

This general overview on the gifted discusses student identification, teaching methods, and model programs for the musically gifted. (SJL)

Games are a child's way of thinking, and without being instructed in a procedural method a child develops mentally, physically, and emotionally as he works to accomplish the series of tasks required to reach the completion of his game. Defines games, tells how to design a game, when they should be used, and gives some sources for music games.…

Creativity is largely an outgrowth of attitude rather than an activity, a set of predispositions rather than a production line. Author traces the concept of creative development and the role music plays in illustrating the creative process. (Author/RK)

The author shows how comprehensive musicianship can be taught within school band performance through preparation of a lesson plan and study guide for each selected musical composition. The lesson, or Unit Study Composition, includes historical and analytical notes, a glossary, concepts, objectives, and assignments. The lesson development process…

Author discussed some important changes in educational thinking and educational practice associated with recent events on both sides of the Atlantic-changes that seem to be bringing us closer to "good education". (Author/RK)

Discusses improvisation as a phenomenon. Offers suggestions for a learning sequence. Warns against allowing students to skip levels. Identifies developmental levels of improvisation as exploration, process-oriented, product-oriented, fluid, structural, stylistic, and personal improvisation. Urges that improvisation can and should be a meaningful…