Grace Kang, Royal College of Music, February 15, 2015
Classical music education has long been rooted in centuries-old traditions, emphasizing the works of composers like Bach, Mozart, and Beethoven. While these foundations are undoubtedly essential, the 21st century presents unique challenges and opportunities that call for a reevaluation of how we approach teaching classical music. In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, cultural shifts, and diverse musical landscapes, it is crucial to rethink classical music education to make it more relevant, inclusive, and accessible.
Embracing Technology and Creativity in Music Education
Technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of our lives, including how we create, consume, and learn music. Classical music education must embrace these innovations to stay current and engaging.
Online learning platforms such as Coursera, ToneBase, Stage+ and MasterClass have democratized access to high-quality music education. These platforms offer courses taught by renowned musicians and educators, making classical music education accessible to students worldwide. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those who may not have access to traditional music education resources.
Interactive apps and software like SmartMusic, Synthesia, and Noteflight offer tools for learning music theory, sight-reading, and instrument practice. These tools use gamification and real-time feedback to make learning more engaging and effective. For instance, students can practice scales and arpeggios with immediate feedback on their accuracy, making practice sessions more productive and enjoyable.
VR (Virtual Reality) and AR (Augmented Reality) technologies have the potential to transform music education by providing immersive learning experiences. Imagine students attending virtual masterclasses with famous musicians or exploring interactive 3D models of musical instruments. These technologies can make abstract concepts more tangible and enhance students’ understanding. For example, AR could allow students to see the inner workings of a piano or a violin, providing a deeper understanding of how these instruments produce sound.
Classical music education has traditionally placed a strong emphasis on technical proficiency and faithful interpretation of existing works. While these skills are essential, fostering creativity and innovation is equally important in nurturing well-rounded musicians. Incorporating composition and improvisation into the curriculum can help students develop their creative voices. By creating their own music, students gain a deeper understanding of musical structures and the creative process. Improvisation, in particular, hones spontaneous musical thinking and adaptability, skills that are valuable in both classical and contemporary music contexts.
Classical music does not exist in a vacuum; it is influenced by and influences various other art forms and disciplines. Integrating interdisciplinary approaches, such as combining music with literature, visual arts, and technology, can provide students with a richer educational experience. For example, analyzing the relationship between music and poetry or exploring how visual art movements have influenced musical styles can deepen students’ understanding and appreciation of classical music. This interdisciplinary approach can make learning more engaging and relevant.
Diversifying Repertoire and Curriculum for Inclusivity
The traditional classical music curriculum has often been criticized for its narrow focus on Western European composers and styles. To foster a more inclusive and well-rounded musical education, it is essential to diversify the repertoire and curriculum.
Incorporating classical music traditions from non-Western cultures, such as Indian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern music, can broaden students’ perspectives and appreciation for global musical heritage. This approach not only enriches the curriculum but also respects and acknowledges the contributions of diverse cultures to the world of classical music. For instance, learning about the ragas in Indian classical music or the maqam system in Arabic music can provide students with a broader understanding of musical theory and expression.
Historically, female composers, composers of color, and other underrepresented groups have been marginalized in classical music education. Bringing their works into the mainstream curriculum can help rectify this imbalance and provide students with a more comprehensive understanding of the classical music landscape. Composers like Florence Price, Amy Beach, and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor deserve recognition and study alongside their more well-known counterparts. This inclusion can inspire a more diverse generation of musicians and composers.
Including works by contemporary composers can make classical music more relatable to modern students. Composers like Philip Glass, Arvo Pärt, and John Adams have made significant contributions to the genre and offer fresh perspectives that resonate with contemporary audiences. Studying these composers’ works can show students that classical music is a living, evolving art form.
Addressing Accessibility, Equity, and Pedagogical Approaches
Classical music education has often been perceived as elitist and inaccessible to many. Addressing issues of accessibility and equity is essential to ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to engage with classical music.
Schools, conservatories, and music organizations should invest in outreach programs that bring classical music education to underserved communities. These programs can provide instruments, lessons, and performance opportunities to students who might not otherwise have access to them. For example, community music schools or mobile music classrooms can bring music education directly to students in remote or economically disadvantaged areas.
Financial barriers can prevent talented students from pursuing classical music education. Scholarships, grants, and sliding-scale tuition models can help make music education more affordable and inclusive. Organizations can partner with foundations and private donors to create funding opportunities for students from low-income families.
Educators should strive to create inclusive environments that celebrate diversity and promote a sense of belonging for all students. This includes addressing biases and stereotypes, promoting diverse role models, and fostering an atmosphere of respect and collaboration. Schools and conservatories can also implement diversity training for faculty and staff to ensure they are equipped to support students from diverse backgrounds.
To adapt classical music education for the 21st century, it is also essential to rethink traditional pedagogical approaches. Shifting towards a more student-centered approach, where educators tailor their teaching methods to the individual needs, interests, and learning styles of their students, can enhance engagement and effectiveness. This approach encourages active participation and empowers students to take ownership of their learning. For instance, teachers can offer personalized feedback and create custom lesson plans that align with each student’s goals and interests.
Promoting collaborative learning experiences, such as chamber music, ensembles, and group projects, can help students develop essential skills like teamwork, communication, and empathy. Collaborative learning also reflects the inherently social nature of music-making. Ensemble playing, for example, teaches students to listen critically, adjust their playing to blend with others, and work towards a common artistic goal.
Case Study: The Juilliard School
The Juilliard School on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, 16 August 2022, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Juilliard_School_001.jpg
As one of the world’s leading performing arts conservatories, The Juilliard School has embraced modern educational practices to remain at the forefront of classical music education. Juilliard’s approach offers a valuable example of how traditional institutions can innovate to meet contemporary needs.
Integration of Technology: Juilliard has incorporated advanced technology into its curriculum to enhance learning. The school uses digital platforms for course materials, practice assessments, and virtual performances. This integration allows students to access resources anytime and fosters a more interactive and engaging learning environment. For instance, Juilliard’s partnership with educational technology companies has led to the development of apps that provide real-time feedback on students’ performances, helping them to refine their skills more effectively.
Focus on Contemporary Repertoire: Juilliard emphasizes the importance of contemporary music alongside traditional classical repertoire. The institution regularly commissions new works and encourages students to engage with living composers. This focus ensures that students are well-versed in the music of today, preparing them for diverse career opportunities in the modern musical landscape. Additionally, students participate in workshops and masterclasses with contemporary composers, gaining insights into the creative processes behind new works.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Recognizing that art forms are interconnected, Juilliard promotes interdisciplinary collaboration among its students. Musicians, dancers, and actors frequently work together on projects, fostering a holistic understanding of the performing arts. This collaborative approach reflects the real-world demands of the arts industry, where interdisciplinary skills are increasingly valued. For example, Juilliard’s cross-disciplinary projects often include collaborations with the drama and dance departments, resulting in innovative performances that blend different artistic elements.
Community Engagement: Juilliard is committed to community engagement and outreach. The school runs numerous programs that bring classical music education to underserved communities in New York City and beyond. These initiatives include free concerts, educational workshops, and partnerships with local schools. By extending its reach, Juilliard helps to democratize access to high-quality music education and inspire the next generation of musicians. These outreach efforts not only benefit the community but also provide Juilliard students with valuable teaching and performance experience.
Diversity and Inclusion: Juilliard has made significant strides in promoting diversity and inclusion within its student body and faculty. The school offers scholarships and financial aid to talented students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder access to top-tier education. Additionally, Juilliard actively recruits faculty and students who reflect a broad range of cultural and artistic perspectives, enriching the educational environment.
Overview of “Juilliard Must Modernize, or It Will Disappear” by Emma Sutton-Williams
In this article, Juilliard-trained violinist Emma Sutton-Williams argues that Juilliard and other classical music conservatories must modernize their education practices to remain relevant in the face of a rapidly changing musical landscape.
While Juilliard has made strides in modernizing its curriculum, some criticisms highlight areas for further improvement. Emma Sutton-Williams’ perspective, as detailed in the Rolling Stone article, emphasizes that Juilliard must continue to evolve to stay relevant. She argues that the institution’s focus on traditional orchestral training does not fully prepare students for the diverse opportunities in today’s music industry. Instead, she advocates for a broader curriculum that includes pop, rock, and electronic music, alongside classical traditions. Sutton-Williams’ insights suggest that while Juilliard is making progress, there is still work to be done to ensure it remains a leader in music education for the 21st century.
For more details, you can read the full article on Rolling Stone here.
Featured Image: Grace Kang, Royal College of Music, February 15, 2015
