Creativity, diversity, and integration: Radical change in the bachelor of music curriculum

Abstract

During 2013–2014, the Task Force on the Undergraduate Music Major of the USA’s College Music Society prepared a report entitled Transforming Music Study from its Foundations: A Manifesto for Progressive Change in the Undergraduate Preparation of Music Majors. The report is a call for increased relevance in undergraduate music studies that prepare students for leadership, adaptability, and initiative in advancing the values of music and musicians in a techno-global society. Specifically, the task force recommends that curricula derive from the three pillars of creativity, diversity, and integration, arguing that composition, improvisation, performance, and theoretical-cultural-historic music studies be taught holistically and in ways authentic to the art and practice of music itself. In addition, the report calls for greater participation by students in planning degree programs that provide trajectories in keeping with their goals and interests, and for greater nimbleness that enhances curricular adaptations on an ongoing basis.