 
Continuing our Position
Either way, advocacy or marketing, there have been efforts to form alliances
between the various disciplines to further the goals and the rightful place of
the arts in the community. This effort has provided a forum for the teachers of
music, visual arts, theater and dance. This has provided some meaningful
interaction. However, such a forum for the many people who work in the specific
subject areas of music has been somewhat disjointed. This matter is what the
coalition will address.
Secondary Organizations
WHERE ARE THE STUDIO TEACHERS?
School music teachers often field questions from students and parents about
the availability of private teachers. The administration of AMEA is often asked
this same question. Giving specific answers is not always possible. By having a
viable vehicle for communication between all interested parties, the
professionals in the field will have a clearer picture of what and where various
services are available. Should all professionals in the field of music education
have a working relationship, the profession will assume an elevated position.
SECONDARY ORGANIZATIONS
There are a number of entities throughout Arizona that offer support to music
education, either civically or institutionally. This is inclusive of civic
organizations that make supplemental learning/performance opportunities
available to children and youth such as youth orchestras, children’s choral
groups and jazz ensembles as well as making available teaching/learning
opportunities through concerts, lectures and scholarship programs. Summer music
camps are attractive by affording increased student learning opportunities.
There is an increasing number of teaching “academies” that have a function of
supplementing music instruction outside the formal education format.
THE CARRYOVER VALUE
- When justifying school music instructional programs, a question that’s
often asked by school administrators is: “What’s the carry-over value of this
teaching to the student’s adult life?” Religious institutions may offer vocal
and instrumental opportunities in worship. But, otherwise, what about the huge
number of students who finish up to 8 years of instrumental instruction by the
time they finish high school, or 12 years by the time they finish college or
those who have been involved in organized singing for most of their young
lives? How many of these continue to participate in making music after that?
There possibly could be a community band, orchestra or choir in every
community throughout the state. Fortunately, there are already quite a few.
But, how are these opportunities found? Community performance groups need to
be included in this coalition to help round out this development effort. A
well-structured program could be developed and sustained that would encourage
students to continue in performance after high school or college. As an aside,
this large number of adult enthusiasts is also a part of an informed
electorate that can support the arts.
THE INDUSTRY
The National Coalition of Music Education is tri-sponsored by MENC, The
National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM), and the National Academy of
Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS). It would make sense to include those of the
music industry in the Arizona Coalition.
NURTURING THE GRASS ROOTS - THE PARENT ROOSTER CLUBS
Concerted effort could be directed to the development of music parent groups
in local schools. Many schools already have these. As an example, band parent
clubs traditionally have done everything from fund raising to moving pit
equipment for the marching band. It seems that these groups should be in place
in every school and district. They could be taught and positioned to speak pro
actively, and if need be, reactively in sustaining strong music education
programs in their local communities.
SUPPORTING THE PROFESSIONALS
Most professional music performance organizations throughout the state
struggle for audience and financial support. Although this seems to be
traditional and customary, it need not be. The coalition could mount an effort
to develop moral and marketing support to these efforts. Professional
performance groups are a reflection of the cultural condition of Arizona’s
society. -
IN SUMMARY
Some communities are proud of having “the best” when it comes to music
education. Others seem to feel left out in comparison. This is unfortunate and
needless. Every child and adult in every community should have the opportunity
to have the best. The geographical location should not be a determining factor.
It’s possible that with a unified effort throughout the profession, all music
could flourish as never before.
SEARCHING FOR ANSWERS...AND CAN’T TELL WHERE TO FIND THEM?
Try networking through the Coalition. There will certainly be someone in
another Client Organization who may shed some light on things.
|
