Summer Reading Recommendations 2024
For many teachers, summer is a time to relax and decompress from the stresses and challenges of the previous school year. For many, it is also a time to do some professional development and reading. While I’m not suggesting that you spend your entire summer reading music education books rather than the latest novels, or binging on podcasts and Netflix series, I do think that there are some amazing music education books that have come out in the past year or so that are definitely worth the time to read between podcasts, Netflix episodes and novels. Here are 4 that I have read recently and HIGHLY recommend to any music educator.
If I Were a Racist: Exploring Racism in Music Teaching by Nathan Holder
I had the honor of interviewing Nate Holder on my podcast a few weeks ago, and his latest book was a central component of our conversation. Here is that episode in case you missed it:
If you’ve been teaching for the past few years, you know that there has finally been an emphasis on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in education, and there have been important conversations about how we as music educators can ensure that EVERY child in our classroom feels that their culture is represented in the music curriculum that is being taught. Nate is an eloquent speaker and a brilliant mind in our field, and this book offers an exploration of systemic racism through the lens of music education. Nate based the book on a poem that he wrote and uses powerful narratives and insights to challenge readers to reflect on their biases and the impact of racism in the music industry and education. I found it uncomfortable reading at times, especially as a white cis-gendered male in his mid-50’s who has taught music for over 30 years, and have done quite a few of things that Nate points out as racist teaching practices. Personally, I find books that challenge your teaching practice really interesting, and this book not only raises awareness but also encourages actionable change, making it essential reading for music educators. By discussing the intricacies of race, identity, and music, this short but important publication inspires a deeper understanding and commitment to inclusivity. I HIGHLY recommend checking this book out.
Pass the Baton: Empowering All Music Students by Kathryn Finch and Theresa Hoover
I have known of Theresa' Hoover’s work for quite some time now - especially her writing and presentations about utilizing technology tools like Noteflight in the music classroom. I met Theresa at a Conn Selmer Institute event at Arizona State University (where she is completing her doctoral work at the moment), and she has several other books that could easily have made this list, including Empowering Ensembles with Technology published by F-flat Books. The reason that I think every music educator - specifically those who conduct any type of performance ensemble - should grab this book to add it to their professional library is because it empowers educators to transform their teaching methods by fostering student leadership and collaboration. Throughout the book, Finch and Hoover provide practical strategies to shift from traditional conductor-centered approaches to more inclusive, student-driven experiences. Rather than Sage on the Stage - it’s more Guide on the Side, which I fully embraced in my own teaching. By implementing their techniques, educators can unlock their students' potential, fostering creativity, ownership, a sense of agency, and a deeper love for music. I think that "Pass the Baton" is essential reading for those teachers who are trying to inspire the next generation of musicians and create a dynamic, engaging learning environment at the same time.
Action-Based Approaches in Popular Music Education - Edited by Steve Holley, Kat Reinhart & Zack Moir
Through my work with MusicFirst bringing our new Modern Band Bundle to the market, and now as a member of the Board of Directors for APME, I have been spending a LOT of time in the popular music education world lately. In my search for excellent resources that will help music educators get a handle on the what, why and how of getting a popular music program started at their school, I found several wonderful resources, including Action-Based Approaches in Popular Music Education which is edited by Steve Holley, Kat Reinhart & Zack Moir and published by McLemore Ave Music. This book serves as the perfect guide for music educators who are looking to explore innovative ways to teach popular music. It blends traditional and non-traditional methods that are meant to engage students by showcasing the expertise of 26 seasoned music educators who each illustrate their unique approach and philosophies of the how and why of popular music education. This collection of thoughts and advice by exemplary music educators highlights a wide variety of ideas and approaches, offering practical strategies, lesson plans, and applications to help educators incorporate popular music into their teaching. Rather than aiming for a one-size-fits-all approach (which I don’t think applies to ANY popular music program), this book provides a diverse set of glimpses into popular music education, making it an essential resource for any music educator.
Switched on Pop: How Popular Music Works, and Why it Matters by Nate Sloan & Charlie Harding
A couple of weeks ago I had the distinct pleasure of sitting in a Keynote Address given by Nate Sloan at the APME Conference at USC. Nate is a GIFTED presenter, storyteller, and musicologist, and it was a real treat to meet one of the creators of one of my all-time favorite podcasts, Switched on Pop. I wrote a blog post about the show a few weeks ago. Here is a quick preview of what they do:
The companion book to this amazing podcast is titled Switched on Pop: How Popular Music Works, and Why it Matters and it is an awesome read! It explores the musical genius behind a collection of Top 40 hits that Nate and Charlie feature in each episode. Nate and songwriter Charlie Harding take readers on a journey through 16 pop classics, illustrating the musical concepts behind two decades of chart-topping songs. The book looks past all of the celebrity gossip that often gets in the way of the music and gives readers the tools to truly understand the music shaping our world. Each chapter dissects a different song and artist, uncovering insights like Taylor Swift’s recurring melodic motifs, André 3000’s rhythmic creativity, and the harmonic ambiguity in "Despacito" by Luis Fonzi. Engaging discussions and illustrations make complex ideas accessible, offering something for everyone—music fanatics, skeptics, and professionals alike. This book will change the way you hear pop music, making familiar tracks feel brand new. It might also influence the way you introduce pop music to your students!
I hope that you enjoy these books, and most importantly your summer! Rest up - another school year is only a few months away.