Reconsidering the Role of Stephen Foster in the Music Classroom

Abstract

The place of Stephen Foster and the music of American minstrelsy should be reconsidered for the music classroom. Some of this repertoire can be offensive because of its historical context and racially insensitive language. Critical theory can provide a framework for choosing repertoire that creates dialogue about racial structures in music. The use of critical theory in studying Stephen Foster’s music can engage students in praxis and work toward ending racial injustices in the classroom.