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Concert Programming for the Micosystem to the Macrosystem

Music is a fascinating subject when it comes into alignment with Bronfenbrenner's Bioecological model.  Music is a subject that has roots that have a deeper connection to the community than most other subjects experience.  For example, the Western tradition of music has a deep history with Christianity that is difficult to ignore.  But, programming choices need to take into account many "circles" of a student's bioecological situation.  When programming (read "choosing curriculum") for the year several questions should be asked:


  • How will this piece help my student as an individual?
  • How will parents feel if the student reports at home about this piece? (microsystem thinking)
  • Does the piece align with the school's guidelines?
  • Does the piece serve the community well and align with their values and traditions?  (macrosystem thinking)
  • Is there anyone in the middle that might take issue?  (mesosystem thinking)
I saw Mr. Choir go through the process of choosing music for the Winter Showcase Concert.  He asked many of these questions and tried to balance content with both secular and sacred selections including selections from other cultures such as a Jewish Hanukah piece, a Pacific Islander piece, etc. 

We can't just choose repertoire just because we love it or have always wanted to conduct it.  It has to be more about what is applicable to the students, their families, and the community to have a truly successful program.  

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