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This page presents links to articles written by Dr. Harold M. Best
MUSIC CURRICULA IN THE FUTURE
Dr. Harold M. Best, Dean Emeritus of the Wheaton College Conservatory of Music (IL) and
Past President of the National Association of Schools of Music outlines his vision of
what music curricula of the future should look like. He challenges educators and
students alike to re-prioritize current thinking in music education and place
more emphasis on performing and composing. His comments on music as "language"
are insightful, fresh and provoking. This article originally appeared in
Arts Policy Review.
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MUSICAL PERCEPTION AND MUSIC EDUCATION
Beginning with the seemingly paradoxical comment that he does some of his best
thinking in a surburban Chicago shopping mall, Dr. Harold M. Best speaks directly
to musicians on the subjects of "low" and "high" art, the popular culture, "kitsch"
posing as art, and "attitudinal Muzak." He offers a vision for widening people's
love for music by developing a life of diverse musical language and an increasing love
of musical art. This article originally appeared in Arts Policy Review.
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CREATIVE DIVERSITY, AUTHENTICITY AND EXCELLENCE
Dr. Harold M. Best, beginning with a paraphrase of Genesis 1:1 from the perspective
of a musician, discusses the issue of creative (as opposed to "cultural"
or "artistic") diversity and the implications of the art of shalom.
He offers thoughts on the subject of artist valuing and insights regarding pluralism
and creation (and re-creation). This article was the Keynote address/paper to the
National Association of Schools of Dance and also appeared in Arts Policy
Review.
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WHEN IS WORSHIP WORSHIP?
Dr. Harold M. Best offers pointed insight about the concept of "worship." He
challenges the idea that need to people "go" somewhere in order to worship;
rather he argues
that worship is an ongoing process, taking place at all times in all places. Once
properly understood, worship is a freeing, liberating activity, rightly focused
and immensely rewarding as it encompasses all of life.
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THEOLOGY, MUSIC, SEEKERS AND SENSITIVITY
The Christian Church is undergoing a vigorous debate on the subject of "seeker
sensitive worship." Dr. Harold M. Best posits his thoughts on the subject which are
fresh and thought provoking. Arguing that the words "seeker sensitive" ought to
be reversed and read, "sensitive seeker," he discusses two prevalent views of
theology ("operations" and "policy" theology) and the consequences of a worldview
governed by each. His discussion of the role of music and the arts in the life
of churches represents an important starting place for congregations wishing to
find common ground among those it reaches.
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