In 2011, there are those who are suspect of the teaching artist field. Some who still see teaching artists as an easy way for schools to outsource arts education, bypassing professional arts educators and the costs associated with certified arts teachers. And, as in any field of endeavor, there are those who complain about the training, professionalism, quality, etc. Like all … [Read more...] about The Teaching Artist: A Leg of the Arts Education Table
Rememberg Max Matthews, The Father of Computer Music
"What we have to learn is what the human brain and ear thinks is beautiful," Mr. Mathews told Wired magazine in January. "What do we love about music? What about the acoustic sounds, rhythms and harmony do we love? When we find that out it will be easy to make music with a computer." He's not a name that many in the music and/or art world know, but really, everyone … [Read more...] about Rememberg Max Matthews, The Father of Computer Music
Waiting For Godot: If You Test it They Will Come
Samuel Beckett (Waiting for Godot): "But that is not the question. Why are we here, that is the question. And we are blessed in this, that we happen to know the answer. Yes, in this immense confusion one thing alone is clear. We are waiting for Godot to come."Margaret Spellings: "We measure what we treasure."Diane Ravitch: "How do you measure friendship, character, integrity?" … [Read more...] about Waiting For Godot: If You Test it They Will Come
What Does President Obama Want For His Kids?
A few weeks ago, President Obama offered some inspiring remarks about what he wants for his kids, the sort of remarks we heard on during the '08 primaries, but sadly, not much since. Nevertheless, I am glad to see this voice return on this, and other important issues such as the social safety net.Maybe his voice will begin to include arts education again, and even better, maybe … [Read more...] about What Does President Obama Want For His Kids?
The Swirling Questions of Relevance
Relevance. It's quite the loaded term in the arts and arts education fields, don't you think? I was once talking with two colleagues and the topic of jazz came up. One friend said that she didn't think that jazz was relevant. The other friend had a cow, as the saying goes, wondering exactly how such a statement could be offered. To many in the arts, relevance is established … [Read more...] about The Swirling Questions of Relevance