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Abstract: This article reports on a pilot research project introducing informal music pedagogy developed by Professor Lucy Green to two Ontario schools. Developed from the observed learning practices of popular musicians, the pedagogy locates production and development of musical knowledge firmly with the students. The research team's initial training visit to the UK is reported upon. The research questions and methodology for the project are presented and some initial observations from the early stages of the Canadian implementation project are discussed. Both teachers and students are confronted with challenges and excitement in navigating their roles. As these roles evolve they are demonstrating less anxiety and fear as they attempt new instruments and discover new modes of learning and instruction. Both teachers and students alike have been surprised by the extent of student talent that is encouraged and showcased by the Musical Futures project. This expertise manifests itself in initiated leadership and group collaboration and co-operation that is currently highlighted in educational directives. Students are similarly pleased that the project has inspired their classmates to take a renewed interest in music as it increases the potential in forming bands outside of school time. Many students are also quick to recognize that the music they listen to outside of the classroom is now being recognized and validated in the classroom. There appears to be less of a disconnect between the student and the teacher or the student and the curriculum.
"I can't wait for March break to be over, so we can have music!" Comment by a Grade 8 student in Ontario pilot school.
We would hazard a guess that this is the sort of comment we are all longing to hear from our music students. It certainly filled the Western University research team with hope and excitement during the first session of our musical futures pilot project in an Ontario elementary school a few weeks ago. This pilot project introduces informal music pedagogy, as developed by Professor Lucy Green in the Paul Hamlyn Foundation sponsored Musical Futures research project in the UK. We have recently implemented a pilot project in two Ontario schools, one secondary, urban school in the Thames Valley District School Board and one elementary rural/urban school in the London District Catholic...