NASM’s Influence on “World Music” Offerings

NASM is a strong influence on collegiate music programs throughout the U.S. They largely decide what components are necessary in degree programs for these institutional departments to be accredited by NASM. To this point, minimal gestures towards multicultural musical opportunities have been considered sufficient by NASM (ex. elective world music ensembles and survey courses). This is not sufficient. NASM needs to use its influence to encourage the inclusion of world music courses in the music education curriculum that address curriculum and pedagogy (through the lens of a music education program).  Without such courses, how can one reasonably expect pre-service teachers to have the needed skills to address a changing music education curriculum and an increasingly globalized classroom.