Are You Teaching Globally? (Non Western Music in Secondary Classrooms)

In today's interconnected world, it is crucial to broaden our horizons and expose students to glob

al musical traditions. While Western classical music has long been a cornerstone of music education, incorporating diverse musical forms from Africa, India, China, Japan, South Korea, and beyond is equally essential. In this blog post, we'll explore why teaching non-Western music is crucial for the academic, musical, and interpersonal growth of secondary students, and how it aligns with core arts standards.

Academic Growth:

It wasn't until I was in college that I made the connection that literature I loved to read in English class was written by authors and poets whose contemporaries were composers I loved. Once I connected the dots, it was so exciting to see how what I learned in history connected to English connected to music, and so forth.

Studying music from various cultures enhances academic performance by fostering a deeper understanding of history, geography, and cultural contexts. It encourages students to explore the societal and historical significance of music, making connections between art and broader human experiences. This interdisciplinary approach not only enhances critical thinking but also promotes cultural sensitivity and global awareness.

Musical Development:

Exposure to diverse musical forms offers students a broader sonic palette to draw inspiration from. Non-Western music often employs unique scales, rhythms, and instruments, challenging students to expand their musical vocabulary. This exposure helps them appreciate the diversity of musical expression, fostering a more inclusive and open-minded approach to their own creative endeavors. Furthermore, understanding the cultural and historical context of these musical forms deepens students' appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship behind each composition.

Cultural Connection:

Teaching non-Western music promotes cultural empathy and connection. By exploring the music of different regions, students gain insight into the cultural values, traditions, and customs that shape the musical expressions of diverse communities. This not only breaks down stereotypes but also fosters a sense of unity and interconnectedness, helping students appreciate the shared human experience despite cultural differences.

Alignment with Core Arts Standards:

Integrating non-Western music into the curriculum aligns with core arts standards by promoting a holistic understanding of music. The National Core Arts Standards emphasize the importance of connecting music education to broader cultural and historical contexts. By incorporating global perspectives, educators fulfill the standards' objectives of fostering artistic literacy, creative expression, and cultural understanding.

World Music Products on TPT:

I sound like a broken record, but I know how busy you are! You are planning for Solo & Ensemble, Large Group Festival, Jazz Festival, All-Region, All-State, and it is All-KINDS-OF STRESSFUL!

Let me make it easier on you...

For educators looking to seamlessly incorporate non-Western music into their curriculum, the growing series of world music products on Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) provides an excellent resource. These no-prep products offer comprehensive materials, including history and culture overviews, links to recordings, and guided Cornell-style notes. The convenience of these products allows educators to effortlessly integrate diverse musical traditions into their lessons, enriching the learning experience for their students.

Intro to World Music

African Classical Music

Indian Classical Music

Chinese Classical Music Japan and South Korea will be out next week!

Teaching non-Western music in secondary education is not just about expanding musical knowledge; it's about fostering well-rounded individuals with a global perspective. By incorporating diverse musical forms into the curriculum, educators contribute to academic growth, musical development, and cultural connection, aligning with core arts standards. The world music products on TPT offer a practical solution for educators looking to embrace this inclusive approach, ensuring that students are well-prepared for a future that celebrates diversity and cultural understanding.