In the present age, which is often signified as post-modern or knowledge-intensive, the calls for learning echo loud. Discussions of learning, as well as teaching, permeate almost all levels and arenas of our society, and have a sure place in every-day conversation as well as scientific debate. The concept of learning can be understood and…

Background: Educational guidelines and reforms focused on literacy, including No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), have contributed to a music education culture and climate focused on language literacy rather than on the core content literacies inherent in music itself. Purpose: The purpose of this…

In this article, the authors first address "why" it is beneficial for young people to have the opportunity to be involved in music, and to pursue the development of their musical talent to the fullest. Then, they discuss "how" musically talented young people can be supported in their musical endeavors, drawing on the authors' research to provide…

This study explores the utility of movement analysis technology as a means of contributing to a performance pedagogy informed in part by science. Two research questions were investigated: Can biomechanical skills needed for performance on the violin be accurately and objectively characterized and generalized? Can these data be used to inform…

Professional early childhood educators are often asked for advice about whether or when a young child should learn to play a music instrument. Many educators who do not have a background in music education may not be confident in providing such advice. A range of overseas research has supported learning a music instrument in the early childhood…

A survey of final-year music students at the University of York for the Investigating Musical Performance research project found that 45% (23 of the 51 students in the year group) regularly gave instrumental or vocal lessons. Semi-structured interviews with 16 students revealed a range of teaching activities including workshop leading, one-to-one…

Discussed the music activities that take place at Williamsburg, the colonial capital of Virginia. (RK)

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

Article describes how the author overcame his handicap as a deaf student by playing percussion instruments in the university concert band. Most important was the director's attitude that he should nether encourage nor discourage but rather let the student find his own footing. (Author/MM)

Presented are methods of preventive maintenance for brass band instruments. (KC)

This article describes the folk music instrument, the dulcimer: its historical background, tuning, playing techniques, and maintenance. Instructions are provided for constructing a dulcimer from a pattern or kit. (SJL)

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)