Modern band programs are spreading throughout the United States to benefit underserved students in low-income school districts. These programs have changed the landscape of American music education, increasing participation as historically marginalized student populations have gained access to new school music experiences that reflect a diversity of interests and musical goals.

This course, Teaching Modern Band, provides hands-on experience with a variety of popular music instruments and performance styles frequently used in this music education movement. Participants in this class will collaborate to perform cover songs by their favorite artists and compose original music using live instruments and digital audio workstations.

The course will explore key principles of popular music education, such as facilitation, informal music learning, and approximation. By examining popular music pedagogies and applying them to individual classroom settings, participants may be better suited to provide affirming music education experiences that engage a larger population of students with diverse musical preferences.