-
European Settlers
Puritans, Anglicans, Lutherans and Catholics settle in the new Americas bringing with them their European musical tradition. The first New England colonies were the most significant. -
Reverend John Tufts
Tufts writes the first American music textbook titled, "An Introduction to the Singing of Psalm Tunes." In England, the notion is music is and will be for everyone. -
Industrial Revolution
The positive effects of this revolution bring about economic promise in such that more people can participate in musical activities of a European nature. In 1830, Elam and Ives incorporate new European music in the educational system. -
Instrumental Music
In addition to Psalms and vocal music, instrumental music was on the rise in towns and cities. Military and town bands were established as well as the New York Philharmonic in 1842. The Theodore Thomas Orchestra and Gilmore Band were traveling ensembles having profound effects on the American music scene. -
Boston Public Schools
Lowells efforts for reform were fully realized as the Boston Public Schools were the grassroots movement of music education being in the public sector. Pestalozzi's and Nägeli's music philosophies were implemented. -
Golden Era Height
The first public school instrumental programs were established. The touring ensembles were a major reason these programs were successful, but in addition the Howell Brothers and the Benjamin were the predecessors with their group and private instruction reinforcing the music educational system. -
Maidstone Movement
Charles Farnsworth, Albert Mitchell and Paul Stoeving brought the Maidstone Movement from Europe to the United States. The significance of establishing the tenets of this movement in the public schools was school ensembles were taught from the very first rudiments. More band ensembles were incorporated. -
Effects of World War I
Bands became more prominent during the war replacing orchestras in the school system. These ensembles took on a patriotic role being heard at "graduations, assemblies, meetings and concerts." After the war, band went on a decline, but band competitions brought it back into the American light. -
Frank L. D'Andrea and Allen Britton
Being part of the progressive movement D'Andrea wrote an essay titled, "Music Education Looks Back" which makes music more holistic in thought. Britton's contribution "Basic Concepts in Music Education" in 1954 brings a more aesthetical approach to music. -
Sputnik
The Russians beat the United States in the space race causing Americans to feel vulnerable thus creating a drive in the U.S. to want to do everything better than any country. This included education. Not only was American music education improved, but funding for it as well was given. -
"A Philosphy of Music Education"
Music educators felt the curriculum was too loosely based, because of the holistic and aesthethical approach. Thus, Bennett Reimer wrote this treatise to reinforce music is intellectual too and something unto itself, as well. -
David Elliott
Elliott wrote, "Music Matters: A New Philosophy of Music Education." In it, he describes music as an actual practice and not just an objective matter. His approach is known as praxial education. This writing saved the dwindling effects of music education in the 1980's.
