Music educators must build on the strengths of current practice to take responsibility for charting the future of music education to ensure that the best of the Western art tradition and other musical traditions are transmitted to future generations. All persons, regardless of age, cultural heritage, ability, venue, or financial circumstances, deserve to participate fully in the best musical experiences possible. The integrity of music study must be preserved. Music educators must lead the development of meaningful music instruction and experience. Time must be allotted for formal music study at all levels of instruction such that a comprehensive, sequential, and standards-based program of music instruction is made available.
All music has a place in the curriculum.
Music educators need to be proficient and knowledgeable concerning technological changes and advancements and be prepared to use all appropriate tools in advancing music study while recognizing the importance of people coming together to make and share music. Music educators should involve the music industry, other agencies, individuals, and music institutions in improving the quality and quantity of music instruction. This should start within each local community by defining the appropriate role of these resources in teaching and learning. The currently defined role of the music educator will expand as settings for music instructions proliferate. Professional music educators must provide a leadership role in coordinating music activities beyond the school setting to ensure formal and informal curricular integration.