General Music and Children Living in Poverty

Abstract

A review of recent writing makes the case that children living in poverty (urban, rural, or other) are more in jeopardy now than ever. As teachers attest and research asserts, poverty affects children in profound, complicated, and lasting ways. However, the general music program is uniquely positioned to meet children’s needs, especially those living in poverty. This discussion will consider several important questions: First, what are the complexities that confront children living in poverty? Next, how can culturally responsive pedagogy guide us to respectful approaches for general music educators working with these populations? And finally, how can music education organizations help remove potential roadblocks to implementing strong music programs in high-poverty districts?