Critical Issues in Music Education: Contemporary Theory and Practice is an edited volume designed primarily as an introductory graduate text or capstone undergraduate text for music education students, providing an in-depth examination of critical issues for early-career music educators. Most undergraduate music teacher education focuses on developing the skills and understandings necessary to become a practitioner; this text, however, links theory to teaching practice and offers a variety of perspectives to give music teachers the comprehensive grounding they need to become leaders in the field. Rather than focusing on answers to "what to do" questions, Critical Issues in Music Education focuses on "why" questions through examining underpinnings for the field and encouraging teacher inquiry. Each of the eight contributing authors has unique expertise and experience as a practicing music teacher and music teacher educator, yet the authors share a common background-each is either a faculty member or a graduate of Teachers College, Columbia University.
Consequently, the text is grounded in current educational theory and practice, informed by the authors' work in the field with both music teachers and P-12 students, and linked by a commitment to progressive education. The authors include discussion starters, project ideas, and suggested readings at the end of each chapter. Offering contemporary perspectives on music education, Critical Issues in Music Education provides a foundation for understanding the complexities, challenges, and rewards of music teaching across diverse contexts.