Wayne Shorter and Herbie Hancock recently wrote an open letter to artists that is definitely worth a read and would be worth sharing with students. It is particularly appropriate for students in that it is addressed to the next generation of artists on how to respond to recent global events and contemporary society.
Whatever students’ plans for the future, the suggestions could serve as organizers or starting points for projects in music ensembles or classes. Much of what Wayne Shorter and Herbie Hancock discuss relates to the Core Arts standard of Connecting, which is often addressed less than other standards.
Much of what they say also reminds me of the work of educator, Maxine Greene.
Consider reading some of Greene’s work as well such as [affiliate links] Releasing the imagination: Essays on education, the arts, and social change or Variations on a blue guitar: The Lincoln Center Institute lectures on aesthetic education.
What would you say to the next generation of musicians?
What advice would you give to the next generation of music educators?
Hello, I am currently a pre-service teacher studying music education at Illinois State University. Thank you for sharing this article! I’m at a point in my life where I’m sort of transitioning between deciding who I am as an artist and figuring out how (as a future music educator) I can help students prepare to be an artist. This article definitely helped me think of ways to help in both of those regards. It was a lot of interesting artistic concepts that I had never even thought of before! Thanks for sharing.
Eric, glad you found the article helpful. It’s great that you are already thinking about ways to support your future students and expanding your own thinking about the arts. Best wishes as you pursue your degree and in your future teaching!