Foundations in Music Education

By Christopher Marra and Jessica Vaughan Marra

Foundations in Music Education supports undergraduates pursuing music teaching careers. It covers effective music teaching, learning theories, and music’s role in human life, encouraging reflection on personal experiences and classroom observations. The book examines the history of music education in U.S. public schools, evolving teaching practices, and advocacy efforts. It also explores traditional and emerging music programs, professional organizations, support systems, mentorship, and self-care. Overall, the text challenges students to examine the past, present, and future of music education, urging them to develop thoughtful, personalized approaches to music teaching.

  • Paperback
  • ISBN:
Coming Fall 2025
Category:

Description

Foundations in Music Education is a textbook designed to support undergraduates pursuing careers in music education, particularly those seeking PreK-12 music teacher certification in the United States. The book opens with topics such as the nature of effective teaching, theories of learning, the role of music in human life, and how these ideas manifest within music education. Early chapters encourage critical thinking through reflecting on personal experiences as a musician and music learner with prompts to consider why music is integral to the human experience. Along with reflection, readers are provided recommendations for classroom observation strategies and examples vignettes of music learning experiences.

The book explores the history of American music public education, the development of music programs in schools, and ongoing efforts to keep the profession relevant. It also presents scholarly perspectives on the value of music education and emphasizes the importance of advocacy. Readers are introduced to both traditional ensemble models and emerging music offerings that engage a wider range of students in music making.

Later chapters focus on the broader professional ecosystems, including national music organizations, support systems like administrators and community groups for music programs, and resources for new music teachers. Topics such as new music teacher mentorship, music teacher self-care, and professional growth are also addressed.

Overall, the text challenges students to examine the past, present, and future of music education, urging them to develop thoughtful, personalized approaches to music teaching. Through its comprehensive coverage, it aims to inspire future music educators to contribute meaningfully to the evolving landscape of music teaching and learning.

Reviews

There are no reviews yet.

Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.

You may also like…