I get a new piece and before I have time to even look at the manual, the kids are using it. But the job of all teachers is changing in like ways. Computers allow students to work more independently than they did in the past. The days when an educator stood in front of a classroom and gave all the answers is gone. Music education, however, will always require an involved educator.
Music requires the human touch.
Only the tools used to make sounds have changed. Teach the music. I'm just suggesting we use the new tools, the ones students can relate to, understand and like to teach them. Beyond software applications, Roland makes songwriting tools that are very powerful in teaching rudimentary music, with the ability to create and display chords, forms, etc. The new JS-5 JamStation is an affordable, fun and easy way for students to begin composing using preset song styles.