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Should world music be included in music education curriculum?

Fleda Pickervance

Personally, I strongly believe that world music should be included in music education curriculum. Music has a profound impact on people, and the exposure to different styles and cultures can expand the student's horizons, improve their cultural awareness, and enrich their musical experience.

According to a survey conducted by the National Association for Music Education, only 33% of schools in the United States have a world music program in place, which means that the majority of students are missing out on the opportunity to learn about and engage with music from different countries. This is a worrying trend, considering the increasing globalization of our world, the diversity of musical expression, and the role that music plays in shaping our identities and communities.

The inclusion of world music in the curriculum can bring various benefits to students. For one, it promotes cultural exchange and understanding. By exposing students to music from different parts of the world, teachers can help them realize that there are different ways of composing, performing, and experiencing music. This can broaden their musical tastes and sensibilities, allowing them to appreciate and value the diversity of sounds and styles that exist worldwide.

Secondly, the study of world music can also help students develop their creativity. Many world music genres incorporate improvisation, call-and-response techniques, and non-Western scales and rhythms, which can challenge students to think outside of the usual musical frameworks they are used to. This can help unleash their creativity and encourage them to explore different musical avenues.

Finally, the inclusion of world music in the curriculum can also enhance students' academic performance. A study conducted by the College Board found that students who study music score higher on standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT. Moreover, the study showed that students who study music learn skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management, which are transferable to other academic disciplines.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that world music should be included in music education curriculum. By exposing students to diverse musical styles, teachers can promote cultural exchange, creativity, and academic performance. It is high time we recognize the value of world music and integrate it into our educational systems, so that students can benefit from its rich and vibrant heritage.