Forging New Harmonies: Lived Experience and Student-Centered Praxis in Music Education

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

Aligning with the AERA theme, "Unforgetting Histories and Imagining Futures: Constructing a New Vision for Education Research," this session examines the lived experiences of Black music educators in predominantly White K-12 learning spaces. By unforgetting the histories of these educators, the session explores the pedagogical practices that arise from their experiences. It begins with a presentation of a foundational narrative inquiry study, providing a critical lens for a broader panel discussion featuring distinguished Black educators of all genders. Panelists will share powerful narratives on navigating systemic challenges and cultivating Black Joy as a practice of resistance. By bridging these histories with critical theories, this session offers attendees tangible strategies for imagining futures and fostering equitable, humanizing learning environments for all students.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Music Education

Chair

• Drew Xavier Coles, Teachers College, Columbia University

Papers

• Black identities and Experiences in Music Education Spaces: Constructing a New Vision by Disrupting Anti-Blackness - Colin Walters, University of Connecticut; Drew Xavier Coles, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Creating Equitable and Affirming Environments for Black Individuals in Our Music Education Communities - Drew Xavier Coles, Teachers College, Columbia University; Marjoris V. Regus, Rutgers University; Adrian Davis, University of Minnesota; Colin Walters, University of Connecticut; Darrin Thornton, Pennsylvania State University

• Music Education as Intentional Community Building - Drew Xavier Coles, Teachers College, Columbia University; Tatyana Louis-Jacques, University of North Texas

Session Organizer

• Drew Xavier Coles, Teachers College, Columbia University

Discussant

• Joyce M. McCall, Arizona State University