Creating a Multicultural Music Classroom Experience in Increasingly Diverse Schools

As schools across the nation become more diverse, the need for inclusive and culturally responsive education is more important than ever. This applies to all subjects, including music.

Traditional music curricula, often focused on Western classical traditions, may no longer fully address the needs of today’s diverse student populations.

Updating the curriculum to create a multicultural music classroom experience is essential for fostering an inclusive learning environment where all students feel represented.

Implementing Different Strategies

There are several strategies educators can use to create a diverse and inclusive music curriculum. While not all of these strategies need to be implemented at once, incorporating multiple approaches can help create a more comprehensive program.

1. Culture Exploration

When exploring different cultures, music often plays a central role. Dr. Geneva Gay, an expert in culturally responsive teaching, emphasizes that “students’ cultural knowledge and experiences should be used as a foundation for learning in all subjects, including music.”

By integrating music from various cultures into the curriculum, educators can help students better understand and appreciate the world around them.

For example, teachers can create projects where students research and present on the music culture of their own heritage or assigned cultures if the classroom is not diverse enough.

Additionally, educators can introduce musical instruments that are culturally significant, such as the saxophone in soul music or the violin in Asian cultures, to broaden students’ musical understanding.

2. Adding Guest Perspectives

Experiencing music from different cultures firsthand can be even more impactful than just learning about it.

According to Patricia Shehan Campbell, author of “Teaching Music Globally,” “Global music education involves more than just exposure to different musical styles. It requires an understanding of the cultural practices and values that underlie these musical traditions, enabling students to develop a deeper appreciation for the world’s cultural diversity.”

Inviting guest musicians who specialize in various cultural music traditions to perform and speak to students can bring these lessons to life. If in-person visits aren’t feasible, educators can use virtual platforms like Google Meet or Teams to connect with musicians and educators worldwide, providing students with a rich, global perspective.

3. Bringing Inclusive Language

Inclusive language is a critical aspect of creating a multicultural classroom.

Gloria Ladson-Billings, a prominent educator in culturally relevant pedagogy, notes that “Incorporating students’ cultural references in all aspects of learning is crucial for creating an inclusive classroom environment.”

When discussing different cultures and their music, educators should strive to use language that respects and accurately represents those cultures, avoiding slang or terms that could be seen as culturally insensitive.

4. Cross-Referencing Culture

Teaching a multicultural music curriculum offers students the opportunity to compare and contrast different cultural traditions, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the music in various societies.

Dr. Christopher Small, who introduced the concept of “musicking,” suggests that “Music is a social activity that reflects and shapes cultural identities.”

By creating activities such as Venn diagrams or study groups, educators can help students explore the similarities and differences between musical traditions and understand the cultural contexts from which they emerge.

Educators can also create different study groups and allow one person to rotate weekly into a different culture group to present their learnings. For instance, you may find that different cultures use similar uniforms across their national bands. This is similar to kids’ school clothes that get worn to private education institutions. 

5. Thoughtful Planning

Creating a multicultural music program requires careful planning and a commitment to ongoing learning.

As Patricia Shehan Campbell asserts, “Children naturally gravitate towards music that resonates with their cultural identity. By introducing a variety of musical traditions in the classroom, educators can create a more engaging and inclusive learning experience.”

Teachers should spend time researching different cultures and their musical traditions, considering the unique needs of their students, and continuously updating the curriculum to reflect the ever-evolving landscape of global music.

Conclusion

Incorporating these strategies into the music curriculum can help create a multicultural classroom experience that enriches students’ understanding of the world and fosters an environment of inclusivity and respect.

As research and expert opinions show, a diverse and inclusive music education is not just about teaching students different musical styles—it’s about helping them connect with and appreciate the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our global society.

Donna loves to pour her heart into writing to ignite the curiosity in young minds. Through her writings, Donna becomes a beacon of inspiration, showing children they have the power to achieve their dreams. https://donnamaurer.com