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Singapore International Schools: Best practice in culturally diverse music education

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 June 2010

Melissa Anne Cain
Melissa Anne Cain*
Affiliation:
Singapore American School, 40 Woodlands St. 41, Singapore738548mcain@sas.edu.sg
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Abstract

This paper explores the preliminary outcomes of research into the place and role of cultural diversity in primary music classes at five International Schools in Singapore. It highlights the ways in which school philosophy, policy, curriculum and in-service training influence teacher practice. The research provides insights into the challenges teachers face when diversifying their music programmes in addition to the areas of support that allow a programme based on cultural diversity to flourish and remain successful. The results of interviews with music specialists at these schools suggest that music programmes at International Schools in Singapore provide examples of best practice in culturally diverse music education. The success of these programmes is due to several identifiable factors such as strong philosophical and curricula foundations, quality in-service training and the regular involvement of culture bearers and visiting artists.

Type
Research Article
Information
British Journal of Music Education , Volume 27 , Issue 2 , July 2010 , pp. 111 - 125
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2010

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