Changing paradigms in general music education

Abstract

In Turkey, part of general music education in primary schools is music lessons, which are taught by primary school teachers for grades 1–4 and music teachers for grades 5–8. In the 21st century, the music education approach in schools has shifted from “school music” to “music in the school. This orientation is directly related to exploring learning theories that can be applied during music lessons. Teaching staff, prospective primary school teachers, and music teachers should make sense of the process of teaching music by applying a common perspective. This study addresses the process of music teaching, learning theories, and music as educational content and identifies the new roles of primary school teachers and music teachers in light of changing paradigms. Moreover, a framework for teaching such lessons is recommended that will allow prospective primary school and music teachers to better manage their courses. Key words: Music education, music teaching, learning theories, primary school teachers.