The NAMM Foundation is looking for the best communities for music education.



Are you living in one of the Best Communities for Music Education?

The NAMM Foundation is once again conducting a nationwide search to identify the Best Communities for Music Education, recognizing cities that exemplify a commitment to music education for all children.

As a music advocate, you’re encouraged to apply on behalf of your school district; the 2010 community survey is available through March 12, 2010. The survey will again be conducted in collaboration with The Institute for Educational Research and Public Service of Lawrence, Kansas, an affiliate of the University of Kansas. Only one submission per district or school; complete directions are provided with the survey.

This annual program recognizes and celebrates support and commitment to music education programs for all children by communities and their school administrators, teachers, board members, parents, community leaders and students. To submit your school or district, please visit www.nammfoundation.org. You may wish to also forward this message to a school administrator or other local educators who have the necessary data close at hand.

Visit the NAMM Foundation to learn more about the 2010 Best Communities for Music Education.

“This distinction led to increased funding for our music program and built greater recognition of the program within the community.”—Music Educator, Best Communities for Music Education School District

Anywhere, or just the United States?

It appears to be just the U.S. this time keystring (says Nationwide).

I'll double check with the Foundation, but that's my guess.
Perhaps I should add U.S. to the subject line?

Best,

Frank B.

This is a greatly flawed survey. It applies only to public schools, omitting private schools, home schools, community wide programs, etc. It doesn't take into account in any meaningful or significant manner, community youth orchestras, bands, choirs, etc. It doesn't take into account church or religious choirs or musical groups. It doesn't take into account musical theater groups.

Of particular interest to the piano community, there is no survey of piano dealers, print music dealers, number of private instrumental or voice teachers, no comprehensive survey of major non-school musical organizations such as MTNA, Piano Guild, Music Clubs, etc.

The NAMM foundation BOD seems to be wearing blinders.

Putting my away now.

I think the MENC State and Local Festivals statistics are very relevant because they count the number of kids participating from the local school districts and the grading would show the quality of the teaching.

I noticed in the 2009 study, 2 districts in Washington State were winners. I can think of several Washington State school districts and communities that are much superior musically to the 2 that were mentioned.

It bothers me just a little bit that a school district has to be nominated - but NAMM accepts only one nomination per school district. Isn't this selective in-breeding more than it is a really adjudicated and democratic effort to find superior work being done in music education around the United States.

You have to enter to win.

As John says so many things are being omitted that constitutes good music in a community.

Betty Patnude