Another Perspective: Music Education in the Age of Innovation

ABSTRACT

Music, one of civil society's most important cultural treasures, is undergoing radical, inevitable transformation, especially in places like the United States. A tidal wave of new technology enables a new toolbox for music learning. This is an era of digital music streaming, online experiences, and intelligent instruments that also shape new patterns of music creation and consumption. And the pandemic of 2020-2021, despite all its challenges, has been a powerful spur to innovation. In this article, John Kao begins by identifying four key drivers of the coming and inevitable disruption that will lead to the transformation of music education. He states educational institutions must prepare to navigate the Age of Innovation in the face of disruptive change. He then presents a framework intended as a starter kit to help educators and educational institutions begin that adventure.