Development of Music Education in America

Introduction

Michael L. Marks A Concise History of American Music Education is a detailed and insightful look at the development of music education in the United States. Mark traces the origins of music education back to the early days of the republic, when musical training was seen as an essential part of a well-rounded education. He goes on to discuss the rise of professional music educators in the 19th century, and the growth of music education programs in public schools during the 20th century. In addition, Mark provides a fascinating glimpse into the future of music education, as he explores the potential impact of technological advancements on the field. The result is a thorough and thought-provoking work that will be of interest to anyone with a passion for music or education.

Development of Music Education in America

The development of music education in America has been a long and winding road. Music has always been a part of the country's history, but it wasn't until the late 19th century that music education began to take root in public schools. The earliest efforts were led by people like Horace Mann and Lowell Mason, who believed that music could play an important role in the lives of young people. As Mark points out, Horace Mann was the first president of the American Association for the Advancement of Education, founded in 1848 (p. 81). Mason, Mark notes, wrote the manual that became the handbook of singing school teachers throughout the country and called himself the father of singing among children in this country (p. 41). These pioneers helped to establish music programs in several states, and their work laid the groundwork for further expansion in the 20th century. In the years since, music education has become an essential part of the American educational system, offering students a chance to develop their creativity and expression.

Mark (2008) provides a detailed overview of how the development of music education in America has reflected the countrys changing needs and values. In the early years of the nation, music education was seen as a way to instill patriotic values and promote social cohesion: in the early 20th century, playing in a band or orchestra was believed to lead to character development, healthy leisure activities, and socialization, writes Mark (2008)It also promoted democratic values and citizenship through participation in civic events and playing patriotic music (p. 124). It should be remembered that America had just emerged as victorious from WWI by 1920, and music was a big part of the American experience for the next decadeknown as the Jazz Age. It was during this decade that music would begin to change, and music education would be forced to change with it.

For, as the country began to grow and diversify, music education became an important tool for immigrant communities to preserve their cultural identity. Just like the immigrant groups from Europe who came to America in the colonial period, bringing with them their pious...

…as exploring how current events and social issues can be reflected in musical composition. Music is no longer just about the sounds and feelings of the notes but also about what it conveys in terms of political and social meaningparticularly when it comes to contemporary music. Today, music education encompasses feminism, critical race theory, and more. By teaching students to appreciate and create music from a variety of traditions, music educators help students also to develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Conclusion

As this country looks to the future, it is clear that music education will continue to play a vital role in the development of our nations young people. What Mark (2008) shows is that music education in America has always been shaped by the prevailing trends and events of the time. In the early days of our nation, music education was focused on teaching young people the basics of playing an instrument or singing. However, as the country moved away from its agrarian roots and music became more popular, schools began to place greater emphasis on developing musical skills. This trend was also reflective of the growing importance of music in American culture. As the 20th century progressed, music education continued to evolve. The introduction of new technologies and the changing needs of society led to a greater focus on composition and performance. Today, music education is still evolving to meet the needs of a changing world. However, its essential role in fostering creativity and self-expression remains…