ABSTRACT
Chapter 4 explores the reciprocal relationship of music in society to music in schools. Music in schools is greatly affected by all genres of music in society. Additionally, music in society is influenced by music in schools. However, music education is frequently criticized for not relating to music in which groups outside of schools participate. Consequently, citizens do not always understand or are not always aware of the role or function of music, and particularly music education, in their lives. They often fail to connect school music experiences to experiences in their daily lives, thus not realizing the need for music instruction for all students. Chapter 4’s premise is that by becoming more aware of music’s power and role in society, educators can more fully connect school music experiences to music in their communities. Consequently, school music becomes more meaningful beyond the school environment.
