ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the concept of critical listening, suggests categories for elements of music, and presents strategies for listening lessons using popular music recordings. Music recordings create sonic landscapes, either by replicating the space in which the recording was made or by creating an imaginary landscape. Understanding the influence of sound production in the texture and structure of the piece is as vital as a musician playing in tune with fellow performers. The process of critical listening to popular music is applicable to all levels of music education. Listening, and exposure to music of varying styles, is required by government and academic accreditation agencies, such as the National Curriculum in the United Kingdom and the National Coalition for Core Arts Standards and National Association of Schools of Music. Since many schools of music offer an Introduction to Music Technology course, this may be an appropriate venue for listening lessons.
