Engaging Musical Practices

This book provides practical strategies for engaging middle school students in music, ensuring their continued interest and participation in musical activities throughout life.

In Engaging Musical Practices, readers will discover a wealth of strategies designed to foster active music-making among adolescents, making music relevant to their lives. This approach not only enhances their appreciation for music but also encourages a lifelong connection to it. The second edition expands on these concepts, offering an updated perspective on engaging middle school students in meaningful musical experiences.

The book is structured into fourteen comprehensive chapters that provide practical, pedagogically sound practices for both preservice and inservice music teachers. It begins with an exploration of adolescent development, guiding educators in the creation of an inclusive curriculum that is age-appropriate, relevant, and aligned with educational standards. Readers will find valuable insights into various musical activities, including singing, playing instruments like guitar and ukulele, and incorporating technology into music lessons.

Moreover, Engaging Musical Practices addresses the needs of diverse learners through strategies tailored for students with exceptionalities. It also covers creative projects such as songwriting and co-creating musicals, ensuring that educators can foster collaboration and creativity in their classrooms. With its rich examples, sample rubrics, and resource lists, this book is an essential tool for anyone teaching music to adolescents or pursuing studies in secondary general music methods.