| Music
Selection: Choosing Your Textbook |
From the Fall 2002 Issue of CMP Insight
One of the most important responsibilities CMP music teachers have
is selecting the finest quality literature for their students to
experience. The repertoire that music teachers select represents
the textbook for teaching comprehensive musicianship. It must have
educational value.
Music can be chosen for many different reasons. It can be educational,
as well as functional and entertaining. There are many questions
that music teachers must take into account when selecting music.
Ask these questions the next time you select music:
Does the composition teach?
CMP music teachers will look at the educational value of the music
selection. Look for pieces of music that are rich and will provide
a powerful teaching and learning experience.
What does it teach?
After a thorough analysis, significant musical elements will stand
out as being worthy of teaching. If there are many elements that
stand out, you have selected a quality piece.
What do your students need?
Whether it is related to skill, cognitive, or affective needs, you
students have specific needs. You must determine if the music addresses
the needs of your students.
Will the knowledge they gain from the composition
be transferable?
Outcomes gained from quality literature should have lasting value
that can be applied to future musical experiences.
Does the piece have aesthetic value?
Will students be affected by performing this music? The trained
music teacher is the best judge of evaluating music that is feelingful
and contains artistic beauty.
There is a wealth of music available for music teachers to select.
Choose your music wisely. Music selection is one of the most important
tasks any teacher will perform.
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